NFL player Marshawn Kneeland has died just days after scoring a monumental touchdown.
The Dallas Cowboys defensive end's team and agent confirmed his death today (6 November). He scored the first touchdown of his NFL career on Monday night (3 November) after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone during the Cowboys' defeat to the Arizona Cardinals.
"It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning," the Cowboys said in a statement.
"Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organisation. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family."
The NFL also said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys' Marshawn Kneeland."
It continued: "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 counselling resources."
The cause of Kneeland's death has not been disclosed. Having been selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan, the defensive lineman had featured in seven of the team's nine games this season. During those, he posted 15 tackles, a sack, two tackles for loss and six quarterback hurries.
Kneeland played 11 times in his rookie campaign of 2024. Playing for Western Michigan in college, he recorded 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles and three pass breakups across 38 games.
However, a knee injury saw him ruled out for six games during his rookie year. But he did amass 17 tackles, 13 quarterback pressures, a pass breakup, two tackles for loss and a fumble recovery.
"I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night," said Kneeland's agent Jonathan Perzley in a statement, per the NFL.
"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."
Featured Image Credit: Perry Knotts/Getty Images
Jess Battison