“Prayers for his family”: NFL fans pay tribute as Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland passes away at 24

The Dallas Cowboys and the entire NFL community were devastated on Thursday, November 6, 2025, when defensive end Marshawn Kneeland tragically died at just 24 years old. The cause of death has not been disclosed as of now.

NFL Insider Adam Schefter shared the news via his X handle.

"Dallas Cowboys announced DE Marshawn Kneeland has passed away. He was 24," Schefter wrote.

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Fans flocked to the comment section to share their reaction to the heartbreaking news.

"Prayers for his family man. Terrible news," a fan said. "Terrible news. Praying for his family and friends for healing during this turbulent time. Lord help this family," another fan said. "Damn. RIP young man. Praying for strength for his family smh," a fan said.

More joined in to send their condolences to Marshawn Kneeland's family and loved ones.

"Prayers to Kneeland family and girlfriend 🙏," one fan said. "Devastating 💔 may he rest in peace," a fan said. "RIP man. Way too young life is so unfair 😞," another fan said.

The Cowboys issued a heartfelt statement 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 regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family," the statement read.

Kneeland's death came just three days after he played in Monday Night Football against the Arizona Cardinals, where he recorded a touchdown, the first of his career, after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.

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Marshawn Kneeland's NFL career

The Cowboys selected Marshawn Kneeland in the second round with the No. 56 pick of the 2024 NFL Draft. He appeared in 18 games across two seasons, recording 26 tackles, four quarterback hits, one pass defended, one fumble recovery and one sack. His single sack came during his NFL debut against Philadelphia in September 2024.

During the 2025 season, Kneeland recorded 12 tackles and one sack, appearing in nine games before his tragic passing. What stood out most was his versatility. He played all over the defensive line and even took snaps as a linebacker in coverage. The Cowboys defensive end consistently used his strength and long arms to keep offensive tackles and tight ends off him.

The defensive end had charted 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss during his standout 2023 season at Western Michigan, earning Second-Team All-MAC honors.

Edited by nagpaltusharn25