Marshawn Kneeland texts 'one-word' message shortly before his death, Plano police dispatch audio reveals

In a latest revelation, new details have emerged in the death of Marshawn Kneeland, after Plano police dispatch audio revealed he sent a one-word final text message to a group of friends shortly before his tragic death by suicide at the age of 24. According to dispatch audio, obtained by CBS News Texas from the Plano Police Department, officers responded to the Plano apartment at around 11:40 PM on Wednesday linked to Kneeland after receiving a call about a disturbing text message he had sent.

"We're getting a call from a friend of the resident, they just received a text from him, a group text, from him saying 'goodbye'. They are concerned for his welfare," the dispatcher said as quoted by CBS News.



The former Western Michigan standout was in his second season with the Dallas Cowboys. According to police in a Dallas suburb, Kneeland was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after fleeing the scene of a car accident and evading authorities on foot. According to the Frisco Police Department, Kneeland’s body was found at around 1:30 AM.

Before beginning his NFL career, Kneeland faced a heartbreaking personal loss. In February 2024, just two months before the draft, his mother, Wendy, passed away unexpectedly. The tragedy had a profound impact on him, but Kneeland drew strength and motivation from her memory as he pursued his professional football dreams.


A standout at Western Michigan, Kneeland’s path to the NFL was defined by determination and strong family support. Chosen 56th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, he appeared in 11 games during his rookie season and seven more in 2025. Across two seasons, he tallied 26 tackles, four quarterback hits, and one sack, steadily showcasing his growth and promise as a valuable long-term contributor for the Dallas Cowboys.