Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, 24, was tragically found dead in the early hours of Thursday morning. The team and the NFL shared heartfelt tributes, remembering him as a rising talent who had just scored his first career touchdown earlier in the week. His agent, overcome with grief, called Kneeland his “dearest friend” and described the loss as almost impossible to put into words.

According to authorities in Frisco, Texas, police were searching for Kneeland after a vehicle pursuit that ended in a crash late Wednesday night. He reportedly fled on foot, prompting a multi-agency search involving drones and K-9 units. During the search, officers learned that Kneeland had expressed suicidal thoughts. He was later found with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Police dispatch audio later revealed that Kneeland’s girlfriend had contacted authorities, worried about his well-being and mentioning his history of mental health struggles. Officers also noted that Kneeland had sent a final “goodbye” text message to his family before he was found. His official cause of death will be confirmed by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Kneeland, a second-round draft pick in 2024, had played seven games for the Cowboys this season and was praised during college at Western Michigan for his exceptional athleticism. His sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the football community. Support services like Samaritans and CALM are available for anyone affected by mental-health concerns raised by this tragic event.