At 1:31 a.m. CST this morning, Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found by police in Frisco TX, deceased, due a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Kneeland, a second-round pick in 2024, scored his first NFL touchdown on Monday Night Football this week, just two days before his untimely death.
The tragedy shocked the entire football community as the news came out Thursday morning. He was only 24 years old and died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with police chasing him after family members called them worried about his mental health.
Two members of the Seattle Seahawks community shared important messages and stories about Kneeland. His former teammate, DeMarcus Lawrence, spoke of his sadness upon hearing the news and the importance of mental health awareness.
“My condolences to Marshawn Kneeland’s family and the Cowboys. It’s tough to lose a brother in a situation like this. I want to send my love and my prayers,” Lawrence said.
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He continued on his experiences being around Kneeland in Dallas’ defensive line room last year.
“He was a fine young guy. I loved being around him. He’s going to be missed very well.”
Seahawks reporter Corbin Smith also shared a story on his experience interviewing Kneeland at last year’s NFL Combine.
We at Seahawks Wire were devastated to hear the news of Kneeland’s passing this morning. It’s easy to look at athletes as larger than life figures, but it’s important to remember the humanity they each possess, just like we all do. Mental health is especially important to consider when discussing people as public figures, regardless of criticism within the realm of sports. Just because an athlete has success, or doesn’t, on the field, does not dictate the value of their life. Football teams are groups of human beings, much more valuable than they are as a collection of players, coaches and staff.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Kneeland’s loved ones and the Dallas community at this time.
Furthermore, to any individual reading this- your mental health and that of your family and friends is paramount. Check on your loved ones. Support them when you think they need it, and when you think they don’t. Many see professional football as a dream job, but any human being can be susceptible to struggling at any time. Hurting is never the answer- including against yourself.
Do not be afraid to talk. Ask for help. Talking about these issues is always right, especially when it’s uncomfortable and hard. Tell your family members. Tell your friends.
If you need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the national mental health hotline by dialing 988. You are not alone.