Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead at his apartment on Thursday, according to police, in what appears to be a suicide. He was 24 years old. The Cowboys confirmed the tragic passing of the second-year player, who was drafted in 2023 after a standout career at Western Michigan.
Kneeland’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and a renewed focus on mental health within the NFL community. Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery simmons urged fans to check in on loved ones, writing on X, “Even when someone is carrying the biggest smile, make sure to just check in on them. You just never know man. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, we all go through things that we sometimes hide!”
Kneeland was a second-round pick by the Cowboys in the 2023 NFL Draft, selected one year after defensive end Sam Williams. He made an immediate impact, blocking a punt recovered by Kneeland against the Arizona Cardinals. In nine games this past season, Kneeland recorded a career-high 57 tackles and 4.5 sacks.
The young player endured personal tragedy prior to his professional career, losing his mother, Wendy Kneeland, shortly before the draft. He carried her ashes in a necklace after joining the cowboys, as reported by The Dallas Morning News.
Miami Dolphins receivers coach Robert Prince, who coached Kneeland during his rookie season with the Cowboys, expressed his sorrow, recalling their conversations in the weight room and shared connection to Michigan. “Good kid. I’m sorry to hear that about him,” Prince said.
Western Michigan coach Lance Taylor remembered Kneeland’s infectious energy and leadership, stating, “His leadership, energy and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program.”
The NFL released a statement saying it was “deeply saddened” and had offered support and counseling resources to the Cowboys. Two of Kneeland’s Cowboys teammates, quarterback Dak Prescott and defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, have personal experience with the pain of sibling loss by suicide and lead foundations dedicated to suicide awareness and prevention. Thomas’ sister, Ella, was the same age as Kneeland.