Family of Marshawn Kneeland releases statement after NFL player’s death

The death of Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland Thursday shocked the NFL community and devastated his family, as it grapples with the sudden loss of the 24-year-old Michigan native.

Nicole Kneeland-Woods released a statement on behalf of Kneeland’s family Thursday via social media, remembering the Godwin Heights High School and Western Michigan University graduate as a devoted son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, grandson and friend.

“We are devastated by this tremendous loss and are still processing the depth of our grief,” Kneeland-Woods wrote. “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. His light shone brightly in every life he touched, and his spirit will continue to live on through the countless hearts he inspired.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from friends, fans, and the community. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy as we come together as a family to honor and remember Marshawn’s life and legacy.”

Kneeland died early Thursday morning due to what authorities are calling a self-inflicted gunshot wound following an apparent mental health crisis and a police pursuit in Frisco, Texas.

RELATED: Dallas Cowboys player with Michigan ties died after pursuit, police say

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In the wake of Kneeland’s death, teammates, coaches and the broader NFL community, including his home-state Detroit Lions, expressed their shock and sent condolences to his loved ones.

RELATED: NFL community reacts to death of ex-WMU, Dallas Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland

Western Michigan University athletic director Dan Bartholomae, WMU head football coach Lance Taylor and former WMU defensive coordinator and current University of Michigan defensive line coach Lou Esposito also released statements expressing their heartbreak after Kneeland’s sudden death.

RELATED: WMU mourns death of ex-Bronco, NFL player Marshawn Kneeland

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If you or someone you know needs mental health assistance, the following resources are available:

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a trained listener, call 988.

Visit 988lifeline.org for crisis chat services or for more information.

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