Nov 16, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; The Philadelphia Eagles pay tribute to Dallas Cowboys Marshawn Kneeland during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

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Monday night marks the first time when the Dallas Cowboys will play since the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, the former second-round pick out of Western Michigan who died two weeks ago, with the NFL mourning. Kneeland had just scored his first NFL touchdown days before.

So as the Cowboys get ready for what will no doubt be an emotional night as they return to the field to face the Las Vegas Raiders on the road, here's what we know about what happened to Kneeland.

What was Marshawn Kneeland's cause of death?

Per a release from the Frisco Police on Nov. 6, it was a "possible suicide" after the department "responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that had evaded troopers during a pursuit that entered the city of Frisco."

The vehicle was found after it crashed on Dallas Parkway and Kneeland had "fled the scene on foot." Kneeland was later found after "a self-inflicted gunshot wound."

How the Cowboys will honor Marshawn Kneeland

You'll see helmet decals for Dallas going forward, along with shirts players will wear for warmups. This first game is on the road, so there'll be more to honor him at the Cowboys' next game against the Eagles.

Who was Marshawn Kneeland's girlfriend?

Her name is Catalina Mancera, and she shared this update on Facebook on Nov. 15:

I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you for all the love, prayers, and messages that have been sent my way. Your support has meant more to me than I can put into words during such a painful time.

As I continue honoring Marshawn’s memory, I’m trying to gather as many photos and memories of him as possible. If you have any pictures of Marshawn whether they’re recent, old, funny, or meaningful. I would truly appreciate it if you could share them with me. Every photo helps me hold onto a piece of him and the beautiful impact he had on all of us.

Thank you again for your kindness, your prayers, and for keeping my sweet baby in your hearts. It brings me comfort knowing how deeply he was loved.

She is pregnant, and Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed the team put together a fund to take care of her and the baby:

This article originally appeared on For The Win: What happened to Marshawn Kneeland as Cowboys honor him

Reporting by Charles Curtis, For The Win / For The Win

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