Girlfriend Called Police Hours Before Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland’s Death, Reports Reveal
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead early Thursday, November 6, 2025, in Frisco, Texas, in what authorities are treating as an apparent suicide. He was 24 years old. New details from dispatch audio and police records reveal that his girlfriend had called authorities only hours earlier, fearing for his safety and warning that he was armed and might harm himself.
According to the Frisco Police Department, officers discovered Kneeland’s body near the site of a single-car crash late Wednesday night along the Dallas Parkway. Officials have stated that Kneeland appeared to have suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound, though the final cause and manner of death will be confirmed by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
In the hours before his death, police received a distress call from Kneeland’s girlfriend expressing grave concern for his mental and physical safety. According to dispatch audio obtained by People, the caller told authorities that Kneeland had been struggling with mental-health issues and that she believed “he will end it all.” She also indicated that he might be carrying a firearm. Responders classified the incident as a “welfare concern,” and officers were sent to check his residence around 11:40 p.m. Wednesday night.
Marshawn Kneeland stands on the sideline during the national anthem before an NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Arlington, Texas on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Before that welfare check could be fully carried out, however, Kneeland reportedly became involved in a police pursuit. State troopers attempted to stop his vehicle for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway shortly before 10:40 p.m. Instead of pulling over, Kneeland allegedly fled, leading officers on a brief chase before crashing his car near Warren Parkway. He fled on foot, and a search of the area followed. When officers eventually located him, he had sustained a fatal gunshot wound.
Law-enforcement sources told Reuters and The Washington Post that the circumstances indicate a self-inflicted injury and that no foul play is suspected. The case remains under investigation as officials piece together the sequence of events between the girlfriend’s 911 call, the car chase, and the final moments of the night.
News of Kneeland’s death sent shockwaves through the NFL community. The Dallas Cowboys organization issued a statement Thursday morning mourning his loss:
“We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland. He was a remarkable young man with great talent, energy, and kindness. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and teammates.”
Players and coaches across the league shared condolences, and the NFL held a moment of silence before Thursday Night Football to honor his memory.
Marshawn Kneeland runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana on February 29, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Kneeland, who starred at Western Michigan University, was selected by the Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft. Known for his strength and versatility on the defensive line, he quickly earned respect within the organization for his dedication and character. Teammates described him as “quiet but uplifting,” someone who brought focus and positivity to the locker room.
Behind that professional promise, however, Kneeland had reportedly been battling mental-health challenges. According to people close to him, he had become withdrawn in recent weeks, expressing feelings of stress and isolation. His girlfriend’s emergency call, in which she referenced a “history of mental illness,” tragically underscores the personal struggles that can exist behind an athlete’s public success.
As the investigation continues, mental-health advocates and former players have urged the NFL and teams to strengthen their mental-wellness programs, noting the intense pressures professional athletes face both on and off the field.
Kneeland’s death adds to a growing awareness of mental-health crises among young athletes. Experts emphasize that early intervention, open dialogue, and access to counseling resources can save lives.
While questions remain about the precise chain of events that led to the tragedy, what is clear is that a promising young career has been cut short. Marshawn Kneeland’s loss is being felt deeply by his family, teammates, and fans across the nation.
If you or someone you know is struggling or thinking about self-harm, help is available. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Trained counselors are available 24/7, free and confidential.
Marshawn Kneeland takes part in National Team practice ahead of the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama on February 1, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
