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Key Points Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland's family is speaking out following his death this week. Family and team released heartfelt statements honoring his character and legacy. Community, teammates, and coaches offered condolences and emphasized mental health awareness. The Dallas Cowboys and the NFL are still reeling following the death of 24-year-old Cowboys star Marshawn Kneeland, who died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound Thursday morning following a vehicle police pursuit Wednesday night in Frisco, Texas. Kneeland sent a goodbye text to family prior to his death. Kneeland’s family is breaking their silence on the athlete’s tragic death. In a Facebook post shared by a family relative, the family shared: “The Kneeland family can confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Marshawn Kneeland. We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief. As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he held an even more special place off the field — as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend. He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy. With love and appreciation, The Kneeland Family” Oops! We’re unable to load this content right now. View directly on Facebook Fans, friends, and family members quickly offered condolences on the untimely death of the promising young athlete. “My condolences to you and your family,” shared one. Another added, “Sending prayers to you and your family for such loss.” Condolences Pour in For Marshawn Kneeland Oops! We’re unable to load this content right now. View directly on Instagram The sports world has been devastated following the news of Kneeland’s passing. The athlete, who scored his first NFL touchdown during this week’s Monday Night Football game against the Arizona Cardinals, was a second-round draft pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and showed a bright future. The Dallas Cowboys said in a statement, “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.” Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule shared a five-word request following the news of Kneeland’s death, saying, “Just check on your people.” Rhule continued, “Seeing the tragic news out of Dallas today, understand that none of us know what people are going through. That’s why I think we should be careful about what we say to people, and what we tweet about people.” Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott got emotional in a press conference when asked about his teammate’s passing. He said, “Tragic loss, I hurt—heavy, heavy heart today. I hurt for Marshawn, I hurt for his family. I hurt for his girlfriend. I hurt for every single one of my teammates.” If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
