FRISCO, TX — November 6, 2025 — Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead early Thursday morning in Frisco, Texas, following a police pursuit that ended in tragedy. According to a statement from the Frisco Police Department, Kneeland, 24, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after fleeing on foot from a vehicle crash that had occurred during a pursuit initiated by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Authorities said the incident began around 10:39 p.m. on November 5, when Frisco officers responded to assist DPS troopers in locating a vehicle that had evaded law enforcement during a chase that entered the city limits of Frisco. After troopers briefly lost sight of the vehicle, it was found minutes later crashed along southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. Initial reports indicated that the driver, later identified as Kneeland, fled the scene on foot. Officers quickly established a perimeter and began an extensive search of the area with the assistance of K-9 and drone units.
During the search, investigators received information suggesting that Kneeland had recently expressed suicidal thoughts. At approximately 1:31 a.m., officers located him deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause and manner of death. Police say the investigation remains ongoing and no further details will be released at this time.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the Kneeland family and friends,” the Frisco Police Department said in a public statement.
Kneeland, a native of Plano, Texas, was selected by the Cowboys in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. Known for his strength and relentless work ethic, he had quickly earned a reputation as one of the team’s most promising young defenders. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Cowboys organization and the broader NFL community, with teammates and coaches said to be devastated by the news.
