Dispatch audio painted a tragic picture of the final moments of Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland’s life.
Kneeland sent a group text to his family “saying goodbye,” according to audio obtained by TMZ Sports on Thursday, November 6.
“We’re talking to his girlfriend,” a 911 dispatcher said. “She’s trying to call his agent. We’re trying to get her to call him first.”
Kneeland’s girlfriend, Catalina, told authorities that Kneeland had “a history of mental illness.”
Police used dogs, drones and other means in an attempt to find Kneeland, according to TMZ Sports.
“Everybody stay with a buddy,” an officer can be heard saying on the dispatch audio. “Don’t go looking alone.”
According to the Frisco Police Department, Kneeland was found dead by suicide following a pursuit.
After Kneeland lost control of his vehicle, authorities reported he fled on foot. His body was found at 1:31 a.m. after a search.
The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Kneeland’s death was announced by the Cowboys on Thursday morning. He was 24 years old.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the team said. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
Kneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, also issued a statement on Thursday.
“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” Perzley said. “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.”
Perzley continued, “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.”
The NFL addressed Kneeland’s death on Thursday, saying the league was deeply saddened by the tragic news.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates,” the NFL said. “We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.”
After a stellar college career at Western Michigan University, Kneeland was selected in the second round by the Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft.
In 18 games played, Kneeland had 26 tackles, four quarterback hits and one sack.
During the Cowboys’ game against the Arizona Cardinals on Monday, November 3, Kneeland scored the first touchdown of his NFL career when he recovered a blocked punt in the endzone.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and/or substance use, you are not alone. Seek immediate intervention — call 911 for medical attention; 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; or 1-800-662-HELP for the SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) National Helpline.
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