Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland was announced to have died at the age of 24 in a statement released by the NFL team.
Police revealed he was found with an “apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound” shortly after midnight on Thursday in Frisco, Texas.
Kneeland had been pulled over by local police late Wednesday night, but fled troopers, who lost sight of his car briefly before spotting it crashed off a parkway, the Frisco Police Department said.
His body was found by authorities about three hours after he exited the vehicle on foot, following an extensive search.
An official cause of death has not been released, but will be determined by the Collin County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Police deployed multiple strategies to locate the 24-year-old, including the use of dogs, drones, and officers.
His girlfriend said Kneeland was armed and had a history of mental issues, according to TMZ.
The Dallas Cowboys player told his family goodbye while suffering an “apparent medical episode”, the publication reports.
Marshawn Kneeland died at the age of 24
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GETTYThe Dallas Cowboys wrote in a statement: “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 organisation. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
He was in his second NFL season and had started establishing himself as a starting player.
Just days before his death, he scored his first career NFL touchdown by recovering a blocked punt during a game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland was in his second NFL season
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GETTYKneeland’s agent, Jonathan Perzley, said in a statement: “I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. 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.”
Kneeland’s girlfriend supported him with custom outfits
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The NFL said in a statement, “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 counselling resources.”
The Cowboys selected Kneeland in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan.
In 18 games played, the defensive lineman had 26 tackles, four QB hits, and one sack.