qq. FOREVER A COWBOY: Dallas INKS LIFETIME TRIBUTE DEAL to Immortalize Marshawn Kneeland After His Heart-Wrenching Death at 24 – THIS LEGEND WILL LIVE ON IN NFL HISTORY!
Dallas, TX – November 7, 2025
The NFL world mourns as Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away at his home in Frisco, Texas, early Thursday morning. He was only
24 years old.
Authorities confirmed Kneeland’s passing just four days after he played in the Week 9 loss to the Cardinals. The cause of death remains under investigation but is believed to be sudden and unexpected.
Kneeland, a second-year player from Western Michigan, had earned growing respect in Dallas for his maturity, energy, and quiet leadership on defense. His teammates described him as “a gentle soul who gave everything to the game.”
At the time of his death, Kneeland was in year two of a four-year, $6.83 million rookie contract, including a fully guaranteed $1.2 million base salary for 2025 and a
cap hit of $1.7 million, per Spotrac.
According to NFL CBA Article 45 (Death in Service), if a player passes away while under contract, the team must pay the
remaining salary and guaranteed bonuses to their family or legal heirs.
As a result, the Cowboys will pay an estimated $5.5 million in remaining salary and bonuses to Kneeland’s family — including future prorated signing bonuses through 2027.
In a heartfelt gesture, the Dallas Cowboys signed Marshawn Kneeland to a lifetime honorary contract, symbolically ensuring he will remain a member of the organization forever.
Team owner Jerry Jones
released a moving statement:
“Marshawn represented everything we believe in — dedication, integrity, and heart. His time with us was far too short, but his impact will last forever.”
The Cowboys also announced that
his jersey number will be retired, and the defensive line meeting room at The Star will be renamed “Kneeland Hall.”
In addition, the organization pledged long-term financial and personal support for Kneeland’s parents
, who are approaching retirement age. As the couple’s only son, Marshawn had always vowed to care for them — a promise the Cowboys now intend to fulfill on his behalf.
A moment of silence will be held before the team’s Week 10 matchup, with all players wearing #95 helmet decals in his memory.
Though his NFL journey ended far too soon,
Marshawn Kneeland’s name will forever be part of the Cowboys’ legacy — a reminder of strength, loyalty, and family that never fades.
