Concerns Surrounding Marshawn Kneeland’s Mental Health Before Tragic Death

Police in Western Michigan conducted two welfare checks on Marshawn Kneeland during his time at school due to worries from coaches about a potential firearm. The former defensive end for the Cowboys had previously mentioned suicidal thoughts to authorities, as detailed in a report obtained by ESPN.

Kneeland, who was expected to be a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft following his tenure with the Broncos, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on November 6 at just 24 years old.

During his five seasons at Western Michigan from 2019 to 2023, he accumulated 13 sacks. However, concerns about his mental health seem to have begun back in 2020.

In June 2023, Broncos coach Lance Taylor and then-defensive coordinator Lou Esposito contacted police about Kneeland after a breakup, wanting to ensure he was mentally stable enough to own a firearm. A police report noted that the officer spoke with Kneeland and subsequently took the firearm for safekeeping until a counselor could assess him.

Kneeland, a Grand Rapids native, received confirmation from a social worker at West Michigan Syndecuse Health Center that he presented no threat to himself or others, leading to the return of his gun 12 days later, according to campus records.

Back in September 2020, a friend had called 911 out of concern for Kneeland. Police found him near railroad tracks, where he reportedly expressed suicidal thoughts.

A police officer’s report mentioned that Kneeland was sitting on the tracks, hoping to be struck by a train. He shared feelings of depression stemming from not being able to play football at Western Michigan and admitted he had been struggling for some time. When asked how long, he didn’t respond. He also indicated that he hadn’t sought therapy or medication for his mental health issues.

Although Kneeland did not actively seek medical help, Kent County sheriff’s deputies transported him to a hospital in Kalamazoo. It’s unclear when he was discharged.

The Cowboys have not disclosed whether they were aware of Kneeland’s previous incidents before drafting him, and his cousin commented that he wasn’t familiar with the specifics of the situation.

In a statement, the Western Michigan Athletic Department expressed sorrow over Kneeland’s death, mentioning that they provide extensive support for student-athletes, including mental health resources, which Kneeland had utilized. The staff was reportedly proud of his development as a team leader.

Tragically, Kneeland died following a police chase in Texas. Police dispatch audio from that night indicated he was worried about his girlfriend’s safety, claiming she was suicidal and possibly armed.

The Cowboys honored Kneeland during their first game after his death by wearing T-shirts in his memory and displaying his jersey in the locker room.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, please reach out for help by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support.