DALLAS, Texas -- The Western Michigan Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Western Michigan football program mourn the tragic passing of Marshawn Kneeland.
 
Kneeland was a standout defensive end at Western Michigan from 2019-23 before getting selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He had his best season in 2023, making 57 tackles and 4.50 sacks en route to a Second Team All-MAC selection. Prior to the NFL Draft he participated in the Reese's Senior Bowl, showcasing his talents before the NFL Combine. In total, he played in 36 games, making 21 starts and recording 148 total tackles with 13.5 sacks. Kneeland earned a degree in Sports Management from Western Michigan in 2023. 
 
"My heart is absolutely broken over the loss of Marshawn Kneeland," said head coach Lance Taylor, who coached Kneeland in his first season as head coach in 2023. "Marshawn was so much more than an incredible football player—he was a remarkable young man who meant so much to our program and to me personally. His leadership, energy, and smile were infectious, and he left a lasting impact on everyone in our program. Having coached him during my first season here, we developed a special bond that went far beyond football.  His passion for life and his teammates were unmatched.  Our entire Bronco Football family is devastated, and we send our deepest prayers to his family, teammates, and all who loved him. Marshawn will forever be a part of the Bronco brotherhood."
 
"Our department is heartbroken over the passing of Marshawn Kneeland," added WMU Vice President/Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae. "Marshawn was a beloved member of our campus community and a proud alumnus who worked hard to earn a degree and achieve his dream of being drafted into the NFL.  While his football talents were exceptional, they came second to his kind and engaging spirit and his love for his Bronco teammates and coaches.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, as well as the close community he had in Grand Rapids, the State of Michigan, and at his new home with the Dallas Cowboys."
 
Prior to joining the Broncos, Kneeland starred at Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Mich. He was a First Team All-State selection during his senior season and received Honorable Mention honors as a junior.
 
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