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Ex-Cowboy Diagnosed with CTE After Tragic Death
7 Jul
Summary
- Former NFL player Marshawn Kneeland was diagnosed with Stage 1 CTE.
- Kneeland died at age 24 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
- CTE risk persists despite improved safety protocols, experts warn.
Boston University researchers have diagnosed former Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland with Stage 1 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). The Concussion & CTE Foundation announced this diagnosis on Tuesday, following Kneeland's death. He passed away at the age of 24 in November 2025 from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Kneeland's family released a statement acknowledging the diagnosis, noting it offers important context regarding his potential struggles. The diagnosis contributes to the ongoing conversation about the long-term effects of head trauma in professional football.
CTE is a degenerative brain disease linked to repetitive head trauma, with diagnosis only possible post-mortem. Experts like Chris Nowinski of the Concussion & CTE Foundation stress that current concussion protocols do not prevent CTE, as it stems from repeated head impacts, not just concussions. He urged aggressive measures to reduce head impacts at all levels of the sport.
