The NFL community is mourning the sudden death of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically passed away at the age of 24. New details have emerged surrounding the final hours of the second-year player’s life, shedding light on the events that preceded this heartbreaking loss.

Circumstances Surrounding Kneeland’s Death

Marshawn Kneeland was found dead on November 6, 2025, from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound near a vehicle he had crashed following a police pursuit north of Dallas, Texas. Authorities revealed that the incident occurred in the early morning hours, not far from The Star, the Cowboys’ team headquarters.

According to reports from The Dallas Morning News, Kneeland’s body was discovered inside a portable restroom near the intersection of Network Boulevard and Gaylord Parkway in Frisco, Texas, just minutes from where his vehicle had come to a stop after the crash.

Police Pursuit and Crash

Earlier that morning, Kneeland had refused to comply with a traffic stop attempted by Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers in Addison. During the pursuit, his vehicle collided with a pickup truck near the Dallas Tollway access lanes. Fortunately, the driver of the pickup truck was unharmed, according to DPS spokesperson Josue De La Cerda.

After abandoning his vehicle, Kneeland went missing, prompting a multi-agency search across North Texas.

Final Messages and Mental Health Concerns

Dispatch audio obtained by PEOPLE revealed that Kneeland sent a “goodbye” text to his loved ones before the incident. His girlfriend, Catalina, contacted police to report that he was armed and had a history of mental illness. A representative from the NFL also reached out to the Plano Police Department to provide similar information, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

These revelations underscore the importance of mental health awareness, particularly for athletes facing intense pressure both on and off the field.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Marshawn Kneeland had recently achieved a career milestone, scoring his first NFL touchdown on Monday Night Football, just two days before his death. Drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Kneeland quickly emerged as a promising talent for the Dallas Cowboys.

Teammates and fans honored Kneeland on November 9, 2025, with moments of silence across NFL games nationwide, including an international tribute in Berlin, Germany, where the Indianapolis Colts played the Atlanta Falcons.

Remembering Marshawn Kneeland

Kneeland’s sudden passing has left a profound impact on the NFL community, the Dallas Cowboys organization, and fans across the globe. His career, though brief, showcased his athletic talent, determination, and passion for the game.

If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health struggles or emotional distress, it’s crucial to reach out for support. Contact 988 in the United States or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential, 24/7 assistance.

The loss of Marshawn Kneeland serves as a sobering reminder of the pressures athletes face and the critical need for mental health support in sports.