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Grand Rapids native playing for Dallas Cowboys dies at 24 years old

Marshawn Kneeland ‘tragically passed away this morning,’ Cowboys say

DENVER, COLORADO - OCTOBER 26: Marshawn Kneeland #94 of the Dallas Cowboys warms up prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on October 26, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) (Brooke Sutton, 2025 Brooke Sutton)

DALLAS – A Grand Rapids native and former Western Michigan star who was playing for the Dallas Cowboys died Thursday at 24 years old, the team announced.

Marshawn Kneeland, 24, of Grand Rapids, was in his second season with the Cowboys after being drafted in the second round out of WMU in 2024.

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He spent five seasons with the Broncos from 2019-2023.

“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 organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”

Kneeland scored his first career touchdown on Monday night after recovering a blocked punt in the end zone.


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