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Dallas Cowboys player who died by suicide diagnosed with brain disease

Dallas Cowboys player who died by suicide diagnosed with brain disease

Summary

Marshawn Kneeland, a Dallas Cowboys football player, was found to have stage 1 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) after his death by suicide last year. CTE is a brain disease linked to repeated head injuries and can only be diagnosed after death.

Key Facts

  • Marshawn Kneeland died by suicide in November 2025 at age 24.
  • Scientists diagnosed him with stage 1 CTE through a study of his brain tissue.
  • Stage 1 CTE is the mildest form and often causes headaches and trouble focusing.
  • CTE is caused by repeated hits to the head and is common among contact sport athletes like football players.
  • CTE has been found in many former NFL players’ brains after death.
  • Kneeland was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2024 and played 18 games for the team.
  • Kneeland’s family said the diagnosis helps explain some struggles he faced and want people to remember him beyond his final moments.
  • Experts say Kneeland’s case shows current safety measures may not be enough to prevent CTE in athletes today.
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