Marshawn Kneeland’s biggest NFL moment came days before death at 24

Marshawn Kneeland’s breakout NFL moment transpired just days before his shocking death at the age of 24.

During Dallas’ “Monday Night Football” game against the Arizona Cardinals earlier this week, the Cowboys defensive end recovered a blocked punt for a touchdown late in the second quarter to put his team on the board.

Despite Kneeland’s big play, the Cowboys went on to lose the game, 27-17.

Marshawn Kneeland, a second-round draft pick by the Cowboys in 2024, has died at the age of 24. Getty Images

The Cowboys announced Kneeland’s death Thursday morning, with his agent, Jon Prezley, revealing he passed away Wednesday night.

“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 regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family,” the Cowboys said in a statement.

The NFL also released a statement Thursday, expressing condolences for Kneeland’s loved ones.

Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) celebrated a recovered blocked punt for a touchdown on Nov. 3, 2025. AP

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland,” the statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates.  We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.”

A cause of death has not been disclosed.

A Michigan native, Kneeland was selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan with the 56th overall pick.

He appeared in 11 games during his rookie season and seven this year, recording six solo tackles and one sack.