The atmosphere was heavy as the Broncos faced off against the Raiders on Thursday night.
Earlier that day, the Denver team honored Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following what authorities describe as a police chase in Frisco, Texas.
He was just 24 years old.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the Denver Broncos, along with the Dallas Cowboys and the entire NFL community, mourn the loss of Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, who tragically passed away this morning,” announced Broncos public information voice Connor McGay, as a photo of Kneeland was displayed on the scoreboard at Empower Field at Mile High. “While our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and teammates, please stand and join us in a moment of silence to remember the life of Marshawn Kneeland.”
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that officers pursued Kneeland as he attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic infraction on the Dallas North Tollway near Keller Springs Boulevard. The driver didn’t pull over, and this refusal prompted the chase.
At one point, the police lost track of the car, which was later found abandoned after a collision. Tragically, Kneeland’s body was located nearby.
“The Dallas Cowboys are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers for Marshawn are with his girlfriend Katarina and his family,” the Cowboys stated.
Kneeland was a second-round draft pick out of Western Michigan University in 2024 and had played two seasons in the NFL.
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