Marshawn Kneeland Bio
Marshawn Kneeland (July 8, 2001 – November 6, 2025) was an American professional football defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). He played two seasons with the Cowboys until his death in November 2025. Kneeland played college football for the Western Michigan Broncos, earning second-team Mid-American Conference (MAC) honors in 2023, and was selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft. During the 2025 season, Kneeland was found dead from a gunshot wound following a police pursuit hours prior. His death is being investigated as a suicide.
Early Life and Background
Marshawn Kneeland was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on July 8, 2001. He attended Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, where he played linebacker and tight end. As a senior, he had an impressive record with 110 tackles and eight sacks on defense, as well as 20 receptions for 330 yards and five touchdowns on offense. His performance in high school led him to commit to Western Michigan University to play college football. Kneeland’s early exposure to football set the foundation for his future career in the sport.
Path to American Football
Kneeland played for the Western Michigan Broncos from 2019 to 2023. Despite not being heavily recruited out of high school, he developed into a desirable prospect for the NFL. During his college career, he recorded 149 tackles and 12.5 sacks, along with three pass deflections and three forced fumbles. His notable performance earned him second-team All-MAC honors in 2023 and an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine, which further solidified his status as a promising player.
Marshawn Kneeland Career
Early Career (2024)
Marshawn Kneeland was selected 56th overall in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He made his NFL debut against the Cleveland Browns on September 8, 2024. In his rookie season, he appeared in 11 games, recording 14 tackles. However, his season was marred by a right knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery, which he sustained while attempting to sack quarterback Justin Fields. Despite this setback, Kneeland showed resilience and determination to continue his career.
Breakthrough (2025)
During training camp before his sophomore season, Kneeland was recognized as a potential breakout star on the Cowboys. He showcased his skills by intercepting quarterback Dak Prescott in practice, which garnered attention on social media. However, in October 2025, he was listed on the injury report due to a practice-related ankle injury. Tragically, in Week 9 of the season, just two days before his death, Kneeland scored his only NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt in the end zone against the Arizona Cardinals.
Notable Works and Milestones
Marshawn Kneeland’s signature work includes his performance during his college career at Western Michigan, where he earned second-team All-MAC honors. His journey to the NFL was marked by determination and hard work, culminating in his selection by the Dallas Cowboys.
Marshawn Kneeland Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Marshawn Kneeland received recognition for his performance on the field, including being named a second-team All-MAC selection in 2023.
Marshawn Kneeland Awards Won
Marshawn Kneeland’s notable achievements include being named a second-team All-MAC selection in 2023, highlighting his impact during his college football career.
Marshawn Kneeland Family
Details regarding Marshawn Kneeland’s family background are limited. His mother passed away unexpectedly from an undisclosed illness in February 2024, shortly before he was drafted by the Cowboys. He carried her ashes with him in a necklace at all times.
Personal Life
Marshawn Kneeland lived in Plano, Texas, during his professional career. He was in a relationship with Catalina Mancera, who was pregnant with their first child at the time of his death. Kneeland’s tragic passing occurred on November 6, 2025, during his second season in the NFL, following a police pursuit that ended in his untimely death. The Dallas Cowboys released a statement describing him as a beloved teammate and offered their condolences to his family.
