Cowboys Player Found Dead After Police Chase, Days After Scoring His First NFL Touchdown

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead early Thursday morning after fleeing from law enforcement during a traffic stop. He was just 24 years old and in his second season in the NFL.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, state troopers attempted to pull Kneeland over for a traffic violation late Wednesday night. He sped away, later crashing and abandoning his vehicle before running off on foot. Troopers found him around 1:30 a.m., dead from what officials say was a self inflicted gunshot wound.

The tragic news comes only three days after Kneeland scored his first NFL touchdown, recovering a blocked punt against the Arizona Cardinals during Monday Night Football. The moment was a major milestone for the young defensive end, who had become a valued part of Dallas’ special teams unit.

The Cowboys released a statement expressing shock and heartbreak over the sudden loss. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with Catalina and his family,” the team said.

Dispatch audio obtained by TMZ revealed that Kneeland’s girlfriend and family had contacted police hours before his death. They told officers that Kneeland had sent messages saying “goodbye” and that he planned to “end it all.” His girlfriend also told authorities he was armed and had struggled with mental health issues. Plano police conducted a welfare check shortly before midnight but were unable to locate him.

Kneeland appeared in all seven Cowboys games this season, recording six solo tackles and one sack. He was drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft after a standout college career at Western Michigan University, where he earned second team All MAC honors. In his rookie year in Dallas, he logged 17 total tackles and recovered a fumble, despite missing time with a knee injury.

The NFL issued a statement offering condolences and support to the Cowboys organization. Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, said he was devastated by the loss, calling Kneeland a hard working, dedicated young man who fought his way from small school prospect to respected professional.

The investigation into the events leading up to his death is ongoing.