A tragic wave has swept through the American football community following the death of Marshawn Kneeland, a promising defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys, who reportedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 24.
Authorities in Texas confirmed on Thursday that Kneeland died late Wednesday night after an apparent mental health episode that culminated in a high-speed police pursuit.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the incident began around 10:30 p.m. local time when state troopers attempted to stop Kneeland’s vehicle for a traffic violation along the Dallas North Tollway. Rather than pulling over, the player allegedly sped off, leading to a brief chase.
The pursuit ended when officers lost sight of his car, which was later discovered abandoned after a crash on Dallas Parkway. A joint search by DPS officials and the Frisco Police Department led to the heartbreaking discovery of Kneeland’s body nearby.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the athlete died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Police dispatch audio obtained by local media reportedly captured Kneeland saying goodbye to family members shortly before his death — a detail that has deepened concerns about mental health pressures faced by athletes in competitive sports.
The Dallas Cowboys are yet to release an official statement, but tributes have begun pouring in from teammates, fans, and fellow players, many describing Kneeland as “disciplined,” “driven,” and “full of promise.”
