Shortly after celebrating his first touchdown with the Dallas Cowboys, defensive end Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away at the age of 24. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase in Frisco, Texas.
Kneeland’s great uncle, Preston, remembered him fondly, calling him a “gentle giant” who was loved deeply by his family. The incident began around 10:30 PM when police attempted to stop Kneeland’s vehicle for a traffic violation. Authorities later revealed that Kneeland had shared suicidal thoughts, although it’s unclear who reported this.
After the chase, which ended when police lost sight of Kneeland’s vehicle, they found it abandoned nearby. Despite the efforts of K-9s and drones, it wasn’t until 1:30 AM that his body was discovered.
The Cowboys expressed their sorrow, describing Kneeland as a beloved teammate. His family released a statement, emphasizing his kindness and the love he shared with those around him. They are now asking for privacy as they mourn his loss.
Kneeland was picked in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft after a promising college career at Western Michigan. He played 18 games for the Cowboys, marking his first career touchdown just before his death. “He was more than a player to us; he was a bright spirit,” said Western Michigan head coach Lance Taylor. Kneeland’s mother passed away unexpectedly just before his NFL journey began, a loss that weighed heavily on him.
The NFL community is reeling from this tragedy. The league has provided support and counseling resources to the Cowboys and Kneeland’s loved ones. Mental health issues like the ones Kneeland faced are often overlooked, and recent surveys show that mental health awareness is crucial in sports. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that athletes are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety, making this conversation more important than ever.
If you or someone you know is struggling, there are numerous resources available, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 and the Crisis Text Line, which offers support via text. It’s vital to reach out for help and foster an environment where mental health is prioritized.
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