Posted on Nov 06

Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland passes away at 24, team and agent confirm

Posted Nov 6, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are mourning the tragic loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at the age of 24.

Why it matters: Kneeland's untimely death leaves a significant void in the Cowboys' locker room and on the field, impacting both team morale and their defensive strategy.

As a promising player drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, his contributions were expected to grow in the coming seasons.
He was a beloved teammate, as highlighted by both the team's statement and his agent's heartfelt tribute.

What’s new: The cause of Kneeland's death has not been disclosed, adding to the shock and grief felt by teammates, fans, and the broader football community.

Kneeland recorded 15 tackles, a sack, and 2 tackles for loss during the current season, showcasing his potential and impact as a rookie.

By the numbers: His impressive stats from college and early in his NFL career reflect a player with considerable promise.

In college, he finished with 27.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks over 38 games.
During his rookie season, despite missing six games due to injury, he managed 17 tackles, including 13 quarterback pressures.

Between the lines: Kneeland's rise in the league came after a standout high school career where he set records in tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss.

His performance earned him recognition as a second-team All-Mid-American Conference pick in 2023, further establishing his reputation as a formidable defensive player.

What to watch: The Cowboys now face the challenge of coping with this sudden loss while preparing for the remainder of the season.

Team dynamics will inevitably shift as players process their grief and adjust to life without their teammate.
Coach Mike McCarthy and the coaching staff may need to implement strategies that address both emotional and tactical responses.

The bottom line: As the Cowboys navigate this challenging moment, the entire NFL community stands united in support, rallying around Kneeland's family, friends, and teammates.

Jonathan Perzley, Kneeland's agent, expressed heartache over the loss, emphasizing the impact Kneeland had on those who knew him: "To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words."

Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland passes away at 24, team and agent confirm

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 6, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys are mourning the tragic loss of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at the age of 24.

Why it matters: Kneeland's untimely death leaves a significant void in the Cowboys' locker room and on the field, impacting both team morale and their defensive strategy.

As a promising player drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, his contributions were expected to grow in the coming seasons.

He was a beloved teammate, as highlighted by both the team's statement and his agent's heartfelt tribute.

What’s new: The cause of Kneeland's death has not been disclosed, adding to the shock and grief felt by teammates, fans, and the broader football community.

Kneeland recorded 15 tackles, a sack, and 2 tackles for loss during the current season, showcasing his potential and impact as a rookie.

By the numbers: His impressive stats from college and early in his NFL career reflect a player with considerable promise.

In college, he finished with 27.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks over 38 games.

During his rookie season, despite missing six games due to injury, he managed 17 tackles, including 13 quarterback pressures.

Between the lines: Kneeland's rise in the league came after a standout high school career where he set records in tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss.

His performance earned him recognition as a second-team All-Mid-American Conference pick in 2023, further establishing his reputation as a formidable defensive player.

What to watch: The Cowboys now face the challenge of coping with this sudden loss while preparing for the remainder of the season.

Team dynamics will inevitably shift as players process their grief and adjust to life without their teammate.

Coach Mike McCarthy and the coaching staff may need to implement strategies that address both emotional and tactical responses.

The bottom line: As the Cowboys navigate this challenging moment, the entire NFL community stands united in support, rallying around Kneeland's family, friends, and teammates.

Jonathan Perzley, Kneeland's agent, expressed heartache over the loss, emphasizing the impact Kneeland had on those who knew him: "To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words."