Defensive end was considered one of the rising stars of the Texas team; cause of death not disclosed
FRISCO, Texas — The Dallas Cowboys announced on Thursday (6) the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who was only 24 years old. The team’s official statement expressed deep sorrow and highlighted the young player’s impact both on and off the field.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and a cherished member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family,” the team said in a statement.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Rising NFL talent
Kneeland was selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 Draft, coming from Western Michigan University, as the 56th overall pick. Considered one of the most promising young defensive talents, he had recently made headlines by scoring the Cowboys’ first touchdown in the loss to the Arizona Cardinals, recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.
This season, Kneeland had missed two games due to injuries but had recorded 15 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, and six quarterback pressures. In his rookie season, he also dealt with a knee injury but managed to post 17 tackles, two tackles for loss, 13 pressures, and one fumble recovery.
College career and achievements
A native of Wyoming, Michigan, Kneeland shone at Godwin Heights High School, where he set records for tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss. During his college career at Western Michigan, he played in 38 games, totaling 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles, and three passes defended.
In 2023, he was named to the All-Mid-American Conference Second Team after registering 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 7.5 tackles for loss in just nine games — a performance that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Another tragedy strikes the Dallas Cowboys
Marshawn Kneeland’s death marks another tragedy for the Texas franchise. The case recalls the 2012 death of linebacker Jerry Brown, who died in a car crash while teammate Josh Brent was behind the wheel.
The Cowboys are currently on their bye week and are not scheduled to resume practice until next Monday (10). Players and fans took to social media to express condolences, highlighting Kneeland’s talent, dedication, and team spirit.
What was Marshawn Kneeland’s salary?
Marshawn Kneeland’s contract with the Dallas Cowboys was a four-year deal worth approximately $6.8 million, with an average annual salary of about $1.7 million.
The agreement included a signing bonus of $1.79 million and $4.01 million in guaranteed money. His projected salary for 2025 was around $1.1 million.
Total contract value: $6,832,646 over four years (2024–2027)
Average annual salary: $1,708,162
Signing bonus: $1,789,196
Guaranteed money: $4,011,379
Base salary in 2024: $795,000
Base salary in 2025: $1,105,575
Photo: Marshawn Kneeland’s Instagram – @m_kneeland99
