Sep 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) sacks Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) during the third quarter of the game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

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Marshawn Kneeland passed away on November 5. The Dallas Cowboys edge rusher and 2024 second-round draft pick was 24 years old.

His death was a shock that reverberated across the NFL landscape. The former two-star recruit built himself into a high-upside prospect over five years at Western Michigan. While he held down a rotational role for a needy Cowboys defense, 2025 was the backdrop to his first sack as a pro -- this one coming against the defending Super Bowl champions under the bright lights of the NFL's season-opening game.

MORE ON MARSHAWN KNEELAND: His final game saw his only NFL TD

His final game would mark his first pro touchdown, courtesy of a blocked punt from teammate Sam Williams.

Kneeland's death was shocking and sudden. His agent, Jonathan Perzley, expressed his grief 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."

What was Marshawn Kneeland's cause of death?

Per a release from the Texas Department of Public Safety, Kneeland was involved in a traffic stop following a moving violation in Frisco, Texas Wednesday night. A chase pursued and police lost sight of the vehicle. The car was later found after a crash. Kneeland was dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

A TMZ report of police dispatch audio suggests Kneeland was going through a mental health crisis at the time.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Marshawn Kneeland cause of death: How did Cowboys edge rusher die?

Reporting by Christian D'Andrea, For The Win / For The Win

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