Marshawn Kneeland's teammates are mourning a tremendous loss.
After the Dallas Cowboys defensive end's unexpected death at age 24, quarterback Dak Prescott expressed his grief in an emotional reflection.
"It's been a very tough day," the NFL player—who joined the Texas-based team in 2016—told CBS Sports Texas Nov. 6. "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," the 32-year-old continued. "You wish none of us had to go through this. You wish Marshawn didn't have to go through what he went through."
Marshawn—who was selected by the Cowboys in the 2024 NFL draft—died by an apparent suicide following a "vehicle pursuit that led to a multi-agency search," the Frisco Police Department shared in a press release.
"During the course of the search," the statement added, "officers received information that Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideations."
Dak noted that it was a "triggering day" for him as he struggled with balancing his emotions amid the tragedy. He also shared a heartfelt reminder to fans, emphasizing the importance of their loved ones.
"Just thankful for each moment we have in this life," he said to CBS Sports. "Don't take it for granted. Hug and love on those that you do."
And he understands that it's a difficult situation for everyone, adding, "It's OK to feel how you're feeling."
Marshawn's family, including siblings AJ Kneeland, Shawn Kneeland and Yahmya Kneeland, shared their own heartbreaking tribute to the rising NFL star.
"We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief," the joint Nov. 6 Facebook statement began. "As Marshawn was making his mark on the football field with the Dallas Cowboys, he 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," the message continued. "His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired."
His family also expressed gratitude for the love they'd received following Marshawn's passing, adding, "We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community."
For a look back at Marshawn's life, keep reading.
Promising Talent
Marshawn Kneeland's football career started long before his time at the NFL.
During his senior year of high school in Michigan, Marshawn achieved an impressive 110 tackles and eight sacks on defense as well as 20 receptions for 330 yards and five touchdowns on offense.
A Rising Star
After graduating, Marshawn committed to Western Michigan University, where he achieved 149 tackles and 12.5 sacks across his four years.
A Standout Player
During his time at the school, the athlete's work ethic helped him stand out, going to the team's facilities as often as he could to train and watch game footage.
As his coach David Denham put it, "That's when you started to see the gradual separation between him and some of the other guys."
Reaching New Heights
Marshawn was the Dallas Cowboys' second-round pick in 2024, the team owner Jerry Jones telling him at the time, "Marshawn, we're gonna put a star on that helmet."
For the young athlete, he tried to soak up every moment. "It's a once in a lifetime experience for me," he said of draft night, "so I'm just excited to be here."
Preparing for the Big Leagues
Marshawn's work ethic stuck with him as he transitioned into the NFL, preparing for his first season with the team.
The Next Chapter
As for how he was approaching the NFL, Marshawn just wanted to stick to his game plan.
"I'm going to be the same type of player I've always been," he said after being drafted. "Physical, fast, high-fitness, high-effort, high-motor. It's basically going to come down to making plays."
Putting in the Work
Throughout his almost two seasons on the Texas team, the 24-year-old amassed 26 tackles and one sack across 18 games, including four starts.
Milestone Achievement
Just days before his death, Marshawn scored his first touchdown in the league.
As his agent Jonathan Perzley said of the player following his death, "Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words.”