Marshawn Kneeland’s Final Text Message Before His Death Is Heartbreaking

The final text message sent by Dallas Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland before his death is heartbreaking.

Kneeland, 24, died on Thursday morning, the Dallas Cowboys announced. The second round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was in the middle of his second professional season. Kneeland, a defensive lineman, had played in seven games so far this season. He recovered a blocked punt for a fumble during Monday night’s loss to the Cardinals. The Cowboys, 3-5-1 on the season, are currently on their bye week.

“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 announced.

Marshawn Kneeland died on Thursday morning. Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images© Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Details surrounding Kneeland’s death have begun to emerge. The Dallas Cowboys player reportedly sent a final text message to his family.

TMZ Sports reported that Kneeland texted his family goodbye, as his girlfriend was on the phone with 9-1-1.

“The girlfriend said Kneeland was armed and had a history of mental issues … and she was quoted saying he would “end it all,'” TMZ Sports reported.

“The dispatch also stated the NFL called Plano PD regarding one of its players … stating the ‘subject is texting his family goodbye.'”

NFL statement on Kneeland’s death

The NFL released a statement following the death of the Dallas Cowboys player on Thursday morning.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland. 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,” the league announced.

Tributes for Kneeland have been pouring in from current and former teammates.

“Sick my stomach, my brotha man😢🕊….,” Cowboys DB Juanyeh Thomas wrote on social media.

Micah Parsons added: “I’m sorry little brother I hope you find peace.”

Kneeland’s agent released a statement on the tragic occurrence, too.

“I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night,” said his agent, Jonathan Perzley, in a new statement on Thursday morning.

Perzley added in his statement, “I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream of 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.”

The Cowboys, who recently made two blockbuster trades, are scheduled to return to the field on Monday, Nov. 17 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Hopefully, Dallas will be able to have a special tribute for Kneeland as they move forward during the 2025 regular season.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time. May the Dallas Cowboys player rest in peace.

This story was originally reported by The Spun on Nov 6, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.