Marshawn Kneeland, a member of the Dallas Cowboys practice squad, died unexpectedly on November 6, 2023. He died of an apparent suicide by gunshot. The tragic death of the 25-year-old athlete has led to various investigations. Law enforcement are still interested in what was happening in the moments before the crash, particularly his mental state and recent exchanges.
On the night of his death, Cable Johnson, the Cowboys’ director of security, reached out to law enforcement at 11:40 p.m. to request a welfare check on Kneeland. What initiated it was this series of bad text messages from Kneeland. Writing from these facilities, he detailed his sorrow and anxiety about the possibility of going to jail. “The last context of the text that he sent said something to the fact that I can’t go to prison or jail,” Johnson reported.
Prior to Johnson’s call, officers had responded to an incident involving Kneeland’s vehicle at 10:39 p.m. on the same evening. He left the scene of a high speed crash on foot and was able to outrun officers who were in pursuit. Things started to get worse when Johnson informed the dispatchers that he didn’t know where Kneeland was. Was he still in the Dallas area or back at his apartment in Plano? Johnson’s description and location Johnson gave officers a good description of Kneeland’s vehicle and told them he was en route to check the man’s well-being.
Hours later, at 1:31 a.m., authorities discovered Kneeland’s body. The following day, Johnson received a text message from Kneeland that he was having suicidal ideations. He further observed that Kneeland was still sending group texts with farewell tones and concern for his mental health.
The Dallas Cowboys organization is heartbroken over the loss of their second-year player. In his memory, they intend to celebrate him throughout the remainder of the season. The team’s owner, Jerry Jones, said of Kneeland’s extraordinary influence, “Beyond her prowess on the field, she will always be remembered as a cherished member of the Cowboys family.”
While investigations are still ongoing, Johnson highlighted the need for mental health awareness and support from all sports organizations. Johnson acknowledged after the primary that he had sent out several worrisome group texts, perhaps a reflection of his mental health. It looked like the whole thing was an extended goodbye.
Leave a Reply