Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland, 24, dies by self-inflicted gunshot wound after chase

Dallas Cowboys protective end Marshawn Niland24 years old, died Thursday morning. According to the Frisco Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety, Niland's cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a police chase for a traffic violation.

While pursuing Niland, who decided not to stop due to a traffic violation, traffic police officers lost sight of his car. When Niland's car was eventually found, it was discovered that he had been involved in an accident. Police subsequently found Niland, who was deceased at the time of discovery, while searching the area.

“Initial reports indicated that a man, later identified as Marshawn Niland, 24, of Plano, Texas, fled the scene on foot. Officers established a perimeter and began searching the area with FPD K-9 units and drones. During the search, officers received information that Niland was expressing suicidal thoughts. self-inflicted gunshot wound, Frisco police said.

A Plano Police Department spokesman said officers had previously responded to a “welfare concern” at Niland's residence at 11:40 p.m. Wednesday, but did not make contact with anyone at that time.

Police received calls from Niland's girlfriend and NFLaccording to an audio recording of the dispatch published TMZ. Niland's girlfriend said she received a disturbing message from Niland, who had mental health issues, insisting he would “end it all.” NFL officials said they were contacted by relatives, sharing that Niland had texted them “bye.”

Niland's family shared their despair in a statement released to the media:

“We are devastated by this huge loss and are still experiencing the depth of our grief. While making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn held an even more special place off the field as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson and friend. He was kind, determined, humble and full of love. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on in the countless hearts he inspired.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we gather as a family to honor and remember Marshawn's life and legacy.”

The Cowboys shared their thoughts on team statement: “It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys announce that Marshawn Niland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers for Marshawn go out to his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

Ahead of Thursday's Week 10 match between Las Vegas Raiders And Denver BroncosThe NFL held a moment of silence for Niland:

A second-round draft pick in 2024, Niland was in his second season in Dallas. He recorded his first career sack in Week 1 against Eagles defender Jalen Hurts.

During Niland's last game against Arizona Cardinals – on prime time Monday Night Football – he returned a blocked punt in the end zone for his first career touchdown. The Cowboys lost 27-17.

Niland had a successful prep and college career, including standout performance as a linebacker/tight end at Godwin Heights High School in Michigan and a second-team All-Mid-American Conference selection during his final season at Western Michigan, where he recorded 57 tackles (7.5 for loss), 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

“He was a great person who was eager to learn… wanted to be great,” said one of Niland’s former coaches, Mike Zimmer. NFL Media. “He didn’t take any crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard and loved to play. My last conversation with him was: “Keep being yourself. You'll have a great career.”