Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland was found dead early Thursday. According to law enforcement officials, he took his own life after a police chase in Frisco. He was 24 years old.
As the world reacts to the shocking news, statements have come in from those who knew Kneeland best.
His family offered this statement:
“The Kneeland family can confirm the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Marshawn Kneeland. 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. He was kind, determined, humble, and full of love. 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.”
His college head coach at Western Michigan, Lance Taylor, released this statement:
“My heart is absolutely broken over the loss of Marshawn Kneeland. Marshawn was so much more than an incredible football player — he was a remarkable young man who meant so much to our program and to me personally. His leadership, energy and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program. Having coached him during my first season here, we developed a special bond that went far beyond football. His passion for life and his teammates were unmatched. Our entire Bronco Football family is devastated, and we send our deepest prayers to his family, teammates and all who loved him. Marshawn will forever be a part of the Bronco brotherhood.”
His agent, Jonathan Perzley, released this statement:
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. 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. 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.”
In the locker room, Kneeland was described as a joyful and upbeat person by his teammates. In a message to NFL Network, former defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer had this to say about his former player:
“He was a great person, eager to learn, wanted to be great. He didn’t take crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard, loved playing the game. Tough. My last conversation with him was keep being you, you’re going to have a great career.”
Nick Harris
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