The family of late Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland broke their silence over the football star’s sudden death.
“The Kneeland family can confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Marshawn Kneeland,” the family said in a statement via Facebook on Thursday, November 6. “We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief. 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.”
The statement was issued on behalf of the extended Kneeland family, including Marshawn’s father, Shawn, and his three siblings: brothers AJ and Shawn, and sister Yahmya.
Marshawn’s mother, Wendy, died of an undisclosed illness in February 2024.
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“He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love,” the statement continued. “His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy.”
Marshawn died by suicide following a police chase in the early morning hours on Thursday, according to the Frisco Police Department. He was 24 years old.
Authorities located Marshawn’s body shortly after 1:30 a.m. after he crashed his car and fled on foot.
Marshawn’s girlfriend, Catalina, had called 911 to report that he was acting erratically and had “a history of mental illness.”
The football star sent a group text to his family “saying goodbye,” according to audio obtained by TMZ Sports on Thursday.
The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The Dallas Cowboys, who selected Marshawn in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, issued a statement about his death on Thursday.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team said. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Marshawn’s agent and friend, Jonathan Perzley, also issued a statement confirming the death of the Cowboys lineman.
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“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. “I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”
Perzley continued, “My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss.”
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