Marshawn Kneeland’s family breaks silence after Cowboys defender’s suicide at 24

Marshawn Kneeland’s “devastated” family spoke out shortly after the Cowboys defensive’s suicide.

The 24-year-old was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Wednesday night after a police chase.

“We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief,” Nicole Kneeland-Woods posted on Facebook. “As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he held an even more special place off the field — as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson, and friend. He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired.”

Kneeland played 17 snaps during the Cowboys’ loss to the Cardinals on Monday night, scoring a touchdown on a blocked punt in the 27-17 defeat.

A second-round pick out of Western Michigan in 2024, the jarring news of Kneeland’s death has brought about support and messages from the football world and beyond.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community,” the family’s statement continued. “During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy.”

It is the second tragedy the family has dealt with recently.

Kneeland’s mother, Wendy, died in March 2024 — reportedly of a drug overdose.

The Broncos held a moment of silence for Kneeland ahead of their matchup with the Raiders on Thursday night, while Cowboys teammates have shared their emotional reactions.

“It’s been a very tough day … it started early finding out the news,” quarterback Dak Prescott told CBS New Texas on Thursday night. “Tragic loss. I hurt. Heavy, heavy heart today. I hurt for Marshawn. I hurt for his family. I hurt for his girlfriend [Catalina]. I hurt for every single one of my teammates.

“This is a pain that you don’t wish upon anybody. You wish none of us had to go through this. You wish Marshawn didn’t have to go through what he went through. And [I’m] just thankful for each moment we have in this life and don’t take it for granted — and hug and love on those that you do.”

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis counseling.