Newly released police dispatch audio reveals key moments leading up to Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland’s apparent suicide Thursday, a loss that has deeply affected the NFL community.
Authorities confirmed that Kneeland, 24, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a brief police chase in Frisco, Texas. State troopers tried to stop Kneeland’s vehicle around 10:33 p.m. Wednesday for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway. Kneeland did not stop, leading to a short pursuit that ended after troopers lost sight of the car.
Minutes later, Frisco police found the crashed vehicle near the intersection of Dallas Parkway and Warren Parkway, according to a statement released on Thursday. Kneeland had fled on foot, prompting an overnight search with K-9 units and drones.
“He Will End It All” — Girlfriend’s Frantic Call
According to dispatch audio obtained by The Dallas Morning News, officers spoke with Kneeland’s girlfriend around 11:30 p.m., about an hour after the crash. She reportedly shared with police that Kneeland was armed, had a history of mental illness, and expressed her fear for his safety.
The audio documents officers attempting to contact Kneeland through intermediaries, with one noting, “She was trying to get in touch with his agent,” while police encouraged her to reach him directly. Investigators believe Kneeland returned briefly to his vehicle to retrieve the gun before leaving again.
At approximately 1:31 a.m. Thursday, DPS troopers and Frisco officers found Kneeland dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have not released additional information. The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of death. (
From Breakout Moment to Tragedy
Kneeland’s death came three days after the highlight of his short career: scoring his first NFL touchdown in Monday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone. The second-round pick from Western Michigan University played seven games this season, tallying 15 tackles, a sack, and six quarterback hurries.
His agent, Jonathan Perzley, stated, “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. I saw him grow from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream into a respected professional with the Dallas Cowboys. Losing someone with his talent, spirit, and kindness is pain I can hardly describe.”
Team and League React
The Dallas Cowboys released a statement Thursday morning expressing their grief:
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend, Catalina, and his family.”
The organization has made mental health counseling available to all players and staff during the team’s bye week.
The NFL and NFL Players Association issued statements offering condolences. “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Marshawn Kneeland,” the league said. “We have offered counseling resources to the Cowboys and continue to provide mental health support across the league.”
A Lasting Legacy at Western Michigan
Kneeland’s former college coach, Lance Taylor, called the loss “absolutely heartbreaking.”
“Marshawn was much more than an incredible football player — he was a remarkable young man who meant so much to our program and to me,” Taylor said in a statement shared by Western Michigan on social media. “His leadership, energy, and smile were infectious. He made a lasting impact on everyone here.”
Kneeland played 38 games at Western Michigan and earned Second-Team All-MAC honors in 2023.
Broader Reflection on Mental Health
The tragedy has renewed discussions about mental health in professional sports. Former Cowboys defensive lineman Greg Ellis, who coached Kneeland as a rookie, said he wished he could have done more to support him off the field. “He epitomized what you look for in a football player,” Ellis said. “He played hard and was eager to learn. I just wish I could’ve done more to help him beyond football.”
As the investigation continues, teammates, friends, and fans mourn the sudden loss of a young player whose career and life were just beginning to take off.
Kneeland’s death is a tragedy and a reminder of the unseen struggles that can accompany professional success.
