In a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of life, Dallas Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland expressed a sentiment that life “goes by fast” in one of his last social media messages before tragically taking his life at just 24.

Kneeland was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a pursuit with Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers on Wednesday night around 10:30 PM. The incident marked a somber end to the evening.

Just two days prior, the talented defensive lineman had been on the field for the Cowboys during their Monday Night Football clash with the Arizona Cardinals, showcasing his skills in the sport he loved.

As news of his passing spread, heartfelt tributes flooded social media. Fans and the wider community responded to his last social media activity, sharing their sorrow and condolences.

His final post on the platform now known as X was made in May 2024, where he engaged with a photo posted by his former Western Michigan defensive line coach, David Denham.

Denham had posted a photo of himself standing alongside all his players at a home, with the caption: ‘Always a great evening when the guys come over! #EAT’ 

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland has passed away suddenly at 24

In one of his final social media posts, Kneeland suggested that life ‘goes by fast’

Kneeland had responded: ‘Enjoy this. It goes by fast’. 

The haunting final post on the platform was quickly picked up by Cowboys fans and a number of heartfelt messages were written in response to the post. 

Similarly, on his final Instagram post, which he shared to the platform just three weeks ago, hundreds of tributes were left in the comment section for the Dallas star. 

His ‘shattered’ agent, Jonathan Perzley, confirmed the ‘tremendous loss’ in an emotional statement on Thursday morning. 

‘It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,’ a statement from the team read.

‘Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.’ 

Troopers attempted to stop Kneeland for a traffic violation on the Dallas North Tollway. However, he reportedly refused to pull over, resulting in a pursuit which ended when the pursuing troopers lost sight of Kneeland’s vehicle. 

Kneeland’s vehicle was later discovered abandoned after having been in a crash, prompting a search of the immediate area where the football player was found deceased. 

The defensive lineman, who was drafted by Dallas in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, achieved a major milestone during the clash, scoring his first professional touchdown when he scooped up a blocked punt in the end zone during the second quarter. 

The NFL also paid tribute to the young football star, saying: ‘We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland. 

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.’

The post quickly went viral and fans offered their condolences in response to the post

The defensive lineman was selected by the Cowboys in the second round of the 2024 draft

The defensive lineman, who was drafted by Dallas in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, achieved a major milestone during the clash, scoring his first professional touchdown when he scooped up a blocked punt in the end zone during the second quarter. 

The NFL also paid tribute to the young football star, saying: ‘We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys’ Marshawn Kneeland. 

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources.’

Kneeland was drafted by the Cowboys out of Western Michigan last year. In nearly two seasons in the NFL, he played in 18 games for Dallas, four of which came as starts. He recorded 26 tackles and one sack.

‘I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream of being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys,’ his agent Perzley said.

‘Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pan I can hardly put into words.’

‘My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. 

‘I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss.’

In nearly two seasons in the NFL, he played in 18 games for Dallas, four of which came as starts

Kneeland’s mother, Wendy (left), unexpectedly passed away in February 2024

The Cowboys are on their bye week and are not scheduled to return to training until Monday before their next game against the Las Vegas Raiders on November 17. 

Kneeland set records for tackles, sacks and tackles for loss at Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan, before attending Western Michigan. 

In 38 games throughout his collegiate career, Kneeland registered 27.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles and three pass deflections. 

He also earned a second-team All-Mid-American Conference nod in 2023 after he finished the year with 57 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss in nine games.