The Dallas Cowboys are mourning the sudden loss of defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away early Thursday at just 24 years old. The team confirmed the heartbreaking news and remembered Kneeland as a cherished part of the organization.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team’s statement read. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, also expressed his grief, describing Kneeland as more than just a client.
I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field.
The NFL acknowledged the loss with a public statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.
Kneeland was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft from Western Michigan. Over 18 games, he tallied 26 tackles, one sack, and a memorable blocked punt recovery touchdown just days ago against Arizona.
Dallas is scheduled to face the Raiders on November 17 following their Week 10 bye.
