Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland died Thursday morning at the age of 24, the team announced.
Kneeland was a second-round pick by Western Michigan in the 2024 NFL Draft.
He scored his first career NFL touchdown Monday night when he recovered a blocked punt in the end zone during the Cowboys’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys announce the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland this morning,” the Cowboys said in a statement.
“Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
The Cowboys have not released any details about the cause of death.
Kneeland had 15 tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss and six quarterback hurries in seven games for the Cowboys this season.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Marshawn Kneeland of the Cowboys,” the NFL said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, his family, his friends and his teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and offered them support and advice.”
Kneeland recorded 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles and three TDs in 38 games for Western Michigan in college.
He was ruled out for six games with a knee injury during his rookie year, which saw him accumulate 17 tackles, 13 quarterback pressures, a pass breakup, two tackles for loss and a fumble recovery.
“I am distraught to confirm that my dearest client and friend, Marshawn Kneeland, passed away last night,” Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, said in a statement, according to the NFL.
“I watched him make his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to become a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn put his heart into every snap, every practice and every moment on the field. Losing someone with his talent, his spirit and his goodness is a pain I can hardly express in words.
“My heart aches for his family, his teammates and all those who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. I ask that you give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this immense loss.”
The Cowboys are currently on a bye week and are scheduled to return to action against the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football on November 17 in Week 11.
