Marshawn Kneeland was an American professional football player who most recently played as a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys in the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 8, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kneeland attended high school in Wyoming, Michigan, and later played college football at Western Michigan University, where he developed into a standout edge rusher[2][3]. During his collegiate career, Kneeland was recognized for his athleticism and defensive prowess. In his final season at Western Michigan in 2023, he recorded a career-high 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and eight quarterback hurries, earning Second Team All-MAC honors[3]. He also demonstrated versatility by scoring a rushing touchdown and was named MAC West Defensive Player of the Week following a dominant performance against Eastern Michigan, which included 11 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, a safety, and a forced fumble that led to a defensive touchdown[3]. Kneeland’s athletic background included regional success in track, particularly in the 400-meter run and as a high jumper[3]. Kneeland entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick (56th overall) by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 NFL Draft[1][6]. He signed a four-year rookie contract valued at approximately $6.83 million, with over $4 million guaranteed[1]. In his rookie season, Kneeland made an immediate impact, recording his first career sack in the season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles and contributing on special teams, including a notable blocked punt recovery for a touchdown in a game against the Arizona Cardinals[2]. However, his debut season was cut short by a knee injury that sidelined him for five games; he appeared in seven of the team’s first nine contests before his unexpected death at age 24[2]. Kneeland’s passing was confirmed by the Dallas Cowboys in a statement that highlighted his role as a beloved teammate and his promising start in the NFL[2]. At the time of his death, he was survived by his parents, Wendy and Shawn Kneeland, and his girlfriend, Catalina[1][2]. His brief but impactful career, both in college and the NFL, was marked by determination, athletic achievement, and the respect of teammates and fans. Kneeland’s story is one of rapid ascent in professional sports, cut tragically short, leaving a legacy of potential and perseverance.