Dak Prescott Mourns Teammate Marshawn Kneeland’s Death: “This Is a Pain You Don’t Wish Upon Anybody”

The Dallas Cowboys quarterback reflects on the devastating loss of 24-year-old Marshawn Kneeland, urging others to cherish loved ones and prioritize mental health.

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has shared an emotional tribute following the tragic death of his teammate Marshawn Kneeland, who passed away at just 24 years old.

“It’s been a very tough day,” Prescott, 32, said in a heartfelt interview with CBS Sports Texas on Thursday evening, hours after the news broke. “Tragic loss, I hurt, heavy heavy heart today. I hurt for Marshawn, I hurt for his family, I hurt for his girlfriend, I hurt for every single one of my teammates. This is a pain you don’t wish upon anybody. You wish none of us had to go through this.”

Prescott revealed that he learned of the devastating news “early this morning” and described the day as “triggering for many reasons.” He urged fans and teammates alike not to take life for granted, adding, “Hug and love on those that you do.”

The Dallas Cowboys confirmed Kneeland’s passing in an official statement on Thursday, describing him as “a beloved teammate and member of our organization.”
“Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family,” the statement read.

Authorities later confirmed that Kneeland died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after leading Texas Department of Public Safety troopers on a chase north of Dallas on Wednesday night.

“We’re talking to the girlfriend… she’s saying he is armed and has a history of mental illness,” a dispatcher said in the recording. “Her quote was, ‘He will end it all.’”
His family also told authorities they received a text message from Kneeland saying goodbye, according to the report.

The tragedy struck just days after Kneeland’s standout moment on Monday Night Football, when he recovered a blocked punt and returned it for a Cowboys touchdown—a highlight that now stands as one of his final career moments.

Cowboys defensive tackle Solomon Thomas shared an emotional message on social media:
“Brother Marshawn, I love you. I wish you knew it was going to be okay. I wish you knew the pain wouldn’t last and how loved you are. I wish you knew how bad we wanted you to stay.”

Thomas continued, offering a plea for others facing similar struggles:
“To anyone struggling, please hold on to that light. Please know there is always help and hope. Whatever storm you’re going through, it’s okay to feel that pain. It’s okay not to be okay. But the light will come again.”

Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb also posted a tribute, writing, “You just never know. Sleep well, brada,” alongside a video highlighting the importance of mental health awareness.

Kneeland’s death comes just a year after he lost his mother, whose ashes he wore in a necklace during games—a deeply personal symbol of his strength and love for family.

As the Cowboys organization and NFL community mourn the young athlete’s passing, Prescott’s words echo a larger message about compassion, connection, and mental health.

“If you or someone you know is struggling,” he said, “reach out. Love on them. Life is too precious to face alone.”