The Dallas Cowboys organization and fans are reeling from the sudden and tragic death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. The 24-year-old’s passing was announced by the team on Thursday, sending shockwaves through the NFL community and prompting emotional reactions from players and coaches alike.
It was later confirmed that Kneeland died by self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Star quarterback Dak Prescott was among the first players to publicly share his heartbreak following the devastating news. Speaking Thursday night at a ceremony honoring him at his alma mater, Haughton High School in Louisiana, Prescott described the loss as “tragic” and “painful.”
“Tragic loss, I hurt, heavy heart today,” Prescott said, according to CBS News Texas via X. “I hurt for Marshawn, I hurt for his family, I hurt for his girlfriend, and I hurt for every single one of my teammates. This is a pain you don’t wish upon anybody.”
He stated that it was a "triggering day for many reasons,” adding that the team had come together on a Zoom call to allow a space for everyone to share their emotions and feelings.
Prescott’s comments echoed the grief felt across the Cowboys organization, as players, coaches, and fans struggle to process the sudden death of one of the team’s most promising young talents.
Credit: Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images.
Shared pain and personal loss for Prescott
For Prescott, Kneeland’s death carries a particularly deep emotional weight. The quarterback has experienced his own share of personal tragedy in recent years, including the death of his older brother, Jace, who died by suicide in 2020, Marca reports.
Since that loss, Prescott has become an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention, often writing “Ask 4 Help” on his wrist tape during games to remind fans and players alike of the importance of reaching out for support.
“I know what it feels like to lose someone you love,” Prescott said in past interviews. “You never really get over it, you just learn to live with it.”
Marshawn Kneeland’s promising career cut short
Kneeland’s death has left both the Cowboys and the football world stunned. A second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, he had quickly earned respect for his drive, professionalism, and resilience.
Just one year into his NFL career, Kneeland had already made a significant impact on the field. In Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals, he scored his first career touchdown after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone; a highlight that now stands as one of his final memorable moments in the league.
His journey to the NFL was marked by perseverance and personal tragedy. Kneeland’s mother, Wendy, died just two months before he was drafted. “It was definitely tough,” Kneeland said at the time, according to Sports Illustrated. “She helped me a lot in my younger years getting into football. I always had the dream. I always told her, ‘I’m going to the NFL,’ and I made it.”
Marshawn Kneeland tragically died at age 24. Credit: Michael Hickey / Getty Images.
A team united in grief
The Cowboys have not released details about the cause of Kneeland’s death, but the team said in a statement that their “thoughts and prayers” are with his loved ones, including his girlfriend Catalina and his family.
Players and coaches have since expressed their condolences on social media, sharing memories of Kneeland’s work ethic, positivity, and infectious energy in the locker room. The NFL also issued a statement offering its support and counseling resources to the Cowboys organization during this difficult time.
Moving forward amid tragedy
The Cowboys are currently on their bye week, giving the team time to process the loss before returning to action in Week 11 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
For Prescott and the rest of the team, the days ahead will be about healing and honoring Kneeland’s memory both on and off the field.
“Life is fragile,” Prescott said. “You’ve got to cherish the moments with your teammates, your family, your loved ones, because you never know what tomorrow holds.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.