Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland died early Thursday morning, the team announced. He was 24.
“It is with great sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland this morning,” the Cowboys said in a statement. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers for Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, said in a statement: “I am heartbroken to confirm that my client and dear friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. I watched him fight his way from a promising kid in Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected pro for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every moment, every practice and his talent, and to lose his talent, every moment and talent. pain that I can barely got into words.
“My heart goes out to his family, his teammates and everyone who loved him and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community at this unimaginable time. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this great loss.”
The NFL said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Marshawn Kneeland of the Cowboys. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys offering support and advice.”
Kneeland was selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. In 18 games played (four starts), the defensive lineman had 26 tackles, four QB hits and one sack.
In Monday night’s loss to the Cardinals, Kneeland recovered a blocked punt in the end zone to put the Cowboys back in the game in the second quarter. This was his first landscape in his career.
Dallas (3-5-1) next plays at the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday, Nov. 17 after Week 10.