Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland dies at 24

At the age of 24, Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, a developing young talent renowned for his perseverance, humility, and contagious energy, sadly passed away.

Days after Kneeland made headlines for scoring his first professional touchdown during Monday night’s game against the Arizona Cardinals—a bittersweet milestone that would unintentionally become his last—the Cowboys announced his death on Thursday morning.

The Cowboys conveyed their deep sadness in a statement issued by the team:

The Dallas Cowboys are deeply saddened to announce that Marshawn Kneeland died away this morning. Marshawn was a cherished teammate and employee of our company. Our sympathies and condolences are with Marshawn’s family and girlfriend, Catalina.

The reason of death has not yet been disclosed.

On X (previously Twitter), Kneeland’s agent also verified the devastating news and requested solitude for his loved ones.

In a second statement, the NFL said it has been in close communication with the Cowboys and will keep helping players and staff who are having a hard time dealing with the loss.

The league stated, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland.”

“His teammates, family, friends, and girlfriend Catalina are in our thoughts and prayers.”

A Rising Star Was Cut Off

Marshawn Kneeland was born and reared in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and his path to the NFL was characterized by tenacity and quiet resolve.

During his time as a player at Western Michigan University from 2019 to 2023, Kneeland gained recognition for his unwavering work ethic, leadership in the locker room, and ferocity on defense.

He was a strong yet nimble presence on the defensive line, standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 268 pounds.

As one of the most effective defenders in the Mid-American Conference, Kneeland amassed over 150 tackles, 12 sacks, and multiple quarterback pressures throughout his time in college.

The Cowboys selected him 56th overall in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft as a result of his efforts; in interviews after his selection, Kneeland referred to this as “a dream come true.”

When Kneeland joined the NFL, his flexibility and self-control immediately won over coaches.

He played in 11 games during his rookie campaign (2024), filling in as a special teams player and pass rusher.

He gradually developed into a more important defensive role by 2025, earning three starts in seven games.

A fumble recovery against the Cardinals, his first NFL touchdown, demonstrated the playmaking prowess that had characterized his college career.

Effects Outside of the Field

Kneeland has been characterized by teammates and coaches as a player who “lit up a room”—someone whose optimism and smile made an instant impression.

He was referred to be “a coach’s dream” by defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, who highlighted his curiosity, humility, and openness to learning.

Micah Parsons, a fellow lineman, paid tribute on social media:

Marshawn, you were like a little brother to me. We all sensed that you had a lot ahead of you. We’ll keep your light alive, so you can rest easily, dear friend.

Off the pitch, Kneeland was well-known for his unassuming kindness and dedication to helping young people.

During the offseason, he often traveled back to Michigan to give speeches to high school players about mental health, discipline, and pursuing goals in spite of setbacks.

Friends said that he frequently talked about wanting to start a family once his football career ended and that his relationship with his girlfriend, Catalina, was one of the pillars of his life.

A Community and Organization for Grieving

Following the announcement, the Cowboys opened the facility for counseling and remembering, canceling team meetings and practices.

According to reports, head coach Mike McCarthy spoke to the players in private, calling Kneeland “the heartbeat of the young core” and stressing that the team’s cohesiveness will continue his legacy.

Outside Arlington, Texas’s AT&T Stadium, supporters have congregated and left handwritten cards, jerseys, and flowers at the team’s entrance.

From old teammates at Western Michigan to NFL players who shared locker rooms and sidelines with him, tributes have been pouring in from all around the league.

Additionally, a statement was issued by the Western Michigan Broncos football program:

In addition to being a fantastic player, Marshawn was also a wonderful person whose presence inspired everyone in his vicinity. We express our condolences to his family and the Dallas Cowboys organization, and we are devastated.

Keeping Marshawn Kneeland in Mind

The tale of Marshawn Kneeland, who was only 24 years old, was one of commitment, tenacity, and rising greatness.

His death has caused a profound loss in the football community as a whole, not just in Dallas or among teammates.

He was a young guy who was motivated by a love of the game, respect for others, and an unyielding conviction in hard effort, according to those who knew him.

Even though his career was just getting started, his impact on anyone who came into contact with him is still felt today.

From Western Michigan to the NFL’s bright lights, Marshawn Kneeland embodied the best qualities the sport had to offer: heart, modesty, and determination.

Fans, relatives, and other athletes hold on to memories of a young athlete who passed away far too soon as tributes pour in and inquiries into his death progress.

Kneeland, Marshawn, 2001–2025.

I hope he finds peace.