Police in a Dallas suburb say 24-year-old Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on Thursday morning after evading authorities in his vehicle and fleeing the scene of an accident on foot.
Frisco police said Thursday they are investigating a possible suicide. They said Kneeland didn't stop for Texas Department of Public Safety troopers in a chase that was joined by Frisco police on Wednesday night.
Authorities lost sight of the vehicle before locating it minutes later. During the search after Kneeland fled, officers received word that Kneeland had shown suicidal indications.
Kneeland's death came just days after he recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a touchdown in a 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
"It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning," the Cowboys said in a statement. "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, said in a statement, "I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. 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. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.
"My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss."
The NFL said in a 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 selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. In 18 games played (four starts), the defensive lineman had 26 tackles, four QB hits and one sack.
Dallas (3-5-1) next plays at the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday, Nov. 17 following the Cowboys' Week 10 bye.
If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.
For more information on mental health, visit www.mentalhealth.gov or call 1-800-273-TALK. Current and former NFL players/coaches can visit the league's Player Engagement website at www.nflplayerengagement.com
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
