Marshawn Kneeland was suffering from ETC at the time of his death at the age of just 24

New information regarding the tragic death of Marshawn Kneeland has just been revealed.

The former Dallas Cowboys player showed signs of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease associated with repeated blows to the head, according to an analysis conducted after his death.

The defensive end's family announced Tuesday that the CTE Center at Boston University had examined his brain tissue and identified Stage 1 CTE, the first level on a four-stage scale. This finding sheds new light on the challenges the young athlete may have faced before his death.

Marshawn Kneeland was only 24 years old when he died in November 2025 following a high-speed police chase that ended in a suicide. Authorities had reported that the player had fled after being pulled over for a traffic violation before his vehicle was found crashed.

During the investigation, police were also informed that Kneeland had reportedly sent a farewell message to some people close to him, suggesting that he was going through a period of great distress.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a degenerative brain disease primarily seen in people who have suffered repeated head injuries, particularly athletes who play contact sports. It can be associated with certain symptoms such as significant mood swings, impulsivity, or episodes of depression. At present, however, it can only be confirmed after death through a brain analysis.

Marshawn Kneeland's family hopes to raise awareness in the sports world

In a statement released by the Concussion and CTE Foundation, Kneeland's loved ones, including his partner Catalina Mancera, explained that this diagnosis does not lessen the pain of his loss, but that it helps shed light on some of the challenges that elite athletes may face.

The family also emphasized the importance of remembering Marshawn for the man he was, and not solely for the circumstances surrounding his final moments.

Drafted in the second round by the Dallas Cowboys in 2024 after playing at Western Michigan University, Kneeland had dedicated his life to football since the age of seven. His story once again reignites the discussion about the long-term effects of concussions in the NFL.

Research conducted by Harvard Medical School and the CTE Center has already shown that former NFL players face certain increased risks associated with repeated trauma. Kneeland's case serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing efforts to prevent injuries and protect athletes' health.

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