Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland dies at 24
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has died at age 24, according to the team and his agent.
Kneeland was a second-round pick out of Western Michigan in 2024 and played as a reserve for the Cowboys.
The cause of death was not announced.
Dallas Cowboys defensive ends Marshawn Kneeland, Malik Davis and Damone Clark, right, celebrate after Kneeland recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.
Richard Rodríguez/AP
“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization,” the Cowboys said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and her family.”
Kneeland scored a touchdown when he recovered a blocked punt against the Cardinals on Monday, the only one of his career.
“I am devastated to confirm that my client and dear friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” his agent, Jonathan Perzley, said in a statement. “I watched him fight his way from being a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to becoming a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys.”
“Marshawn put his heart into every play, every practice and every moment on the field,” he continued. “Losing someone with his talent, spirit and kindness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
Kneeland played 11 games as a rookie last year and then seven games this season. He had the only sack of his career in this season’s opener against the Eagles.
The Cowboys, who bolstered a struggling defense with former Jets star Quinnen Williams on Tuesday, are off this week.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
