Audio Reveals Frantic, Harrowing Search for Cowboys DE Marshawn Kneeland
The harrowing search by authorities for Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland stretched over 3 hours and began at The Star — the Cowboys’ practice facilities in Frisco, Texas — and ended early Thursday morning when police drones located Kneeland’s body in a port-a-potty, according to audio obtained by Heavy courtesy of Broadcastify.com.
Authorities later confirmed Kneeland died of a self inflicted gunshot wound following a brief car chase with police.
Kneeland crashed what was described as a 2024 Buick SUV shortly after 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday and reportedly left on foot toward the Gaylord Warren Hotel, but may have returned to his vehicle in order to “obtain something and left again” according to the audio.
At one point in the search for Kneeland, police believed he’d reached out to a “white female” to pick him up at a bar in another Buick SUV registered under Kneeland’s name.
The Police Dispatch Audio Reveals Details of the Lengthy Search for Marshawn Kneeland Before He Was Found Dead
You can listen to the dispatch audio in the video below:
At one point in the search, authorities also disclosed he had “said goodbye” in a group text, with that information coming from Kneeland’s girlfriend.
Talking with Kneeland’s girlfriend, she disclosed to authorities that he’d indicated he was going to “end it all” that night. Shortly after police revealed they were also in contact with the Cowboys. The audio also revealed the NFL had called the Plano Police Department, which is where Kneeland lived.
“Do me a favor, everybody, stay with a buddy,” one law enforcement officer says. “We know he has a gun. Don’t go off looking on your own … we have an armed suspect with a handgun who took off on foot.”
Authorities also attempted to call Kneeland and left a voicemail while also attempting to send him several text messages.
Eventually, a drone located Kneeland in a portable restroom after identifying a ping on his phone.
Using the drone, the police eventually identified a heat signature inside of the portable restroom.
Audio Player
“The door is open and red liquid is coming out,” police audio said. ” … he’s laying on his side and there is blood coming out.”
From the official statement from the Texas Department of Safety: “On November 5, 2025, at 10:33 P.M., Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Troopers attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation on the northbound lanes of the Dallas North Tollway near Keller Springs Blvd. The driver refused to stop, resulting in a pursuit with DPS Troopers. However, DPS Troopers lost sight of the vehicle, and the pursuit was terminated. The vehicle was later located abandoned and had been involved in a crash on the southbound lanes of Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway. DPS Aircraft and Troopers, along with the Frisco Police Department, searched the immediate area and found the driver, 24 YOA, Marshawn Kneeland, of Plano, deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. For inquiries regarding the death investigation, contact the Frisco Police Department. This investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available.”
Kneeland in Second Season With Cowboys
Kneeland was in his second season with the Cowboys, who selected him in the second round (No. 54 overall) of the 2024 NFL draft out of Western Michigan.
His death came just days after he scored his first NFL touchdown off of a blocked punt in a 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Monday Night Football in Arlington, Texas.
The Cowboys, 3-6-1, are on a bye this week and don’t return to action until they travel to face the Las Vegas Raiders in another Monday Night Football game in Week 11.
Alohi Gilman Has Stabilized the Baltimore Ravens’ Defense
The Ravens traded for safety Alohi Gilman to solidify a struggling defense. Before his arrival, their defense lacked balance and consistency; communication breakdowns in both the middle and deep field left too many passing lanes open.
Following the trade, Baltimore’s defense has played faster, cleaner, and more connected. His presence helped the unit regain structure after weeks of struggling performances.
What the Alohi Gilman Trade Brought
Gilman has brought stability by handling deep safety responsibilities, allowing Kyle Hamilton to return to the box. That move restored the Ravens’ defensive rhythm. Hamilton’s versatility shines closer to the line, as he is able to bring pressure to the quarterback and make huge plays.
Alohi Gilman’s range and instincts cover deep routes effectively and his discipline limits explosive plays, something that the team struggled with prior to the trade.
Gilman’s addition is perfect for the defense and Hamilton who thrives in a playmaker role. Baltimore now mixes coverage with more confidence and control.
Momentum for the Playoff Push
After starting 1-5, the Ravens won two games in a row. Ever since adding Alohi Gilman, Baltimore has shown real progress, and with a manageable schedule ahead, the Ravens’ defense looks more balanced and confident.
Gilman’s consistency has steadied the group, helping balance their aggression with discipline. That formula could keep the Ravens competitive down the stretch and fighting for a playoff spot.
As the defense continues to improve, Baltimore could quietly climb back into contention and potentially win the AFC North division, turning a rough start into a statement finish. If that happened, Gilman’s impact could be the key difference between missing the playoffs to making a late season run.
The timing of Gilman’s arrival couldn’t have been better. As the season moves forwards and the Ravens prepare for games they can’t afford to slip up, his impact on freeing up Hamilton and his consistency on the back end will be essential.
