Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys dropped their second-straight game in Week 9, falling to 3-5-1 on the 2025 NFL season after a 27-17 loss to Jacoby Brissett and the Arizona Cardinals on “Monday Night Football.” Now, the Cowboys will head into their bye in Week 10, awaiting the Las Vegas Raiders for their next matchup in Week 11.
Through nine weeks, Dallas’ defense has been among the worst in the NFL, allowing 397.4 yards per game, the second-worst in the league behind the Cincinnati Bengals. But Jerry Jones addressed a few issues at the trade deadline, acquiring defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets and linebacker Logan Wilson from the Bengals. However, Dallas will be without another key defender going forward.
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Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland passed away due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
Marshawn Kneeland, after a college career at Western Michigan, was the Cowboys’ second-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft. He earned a significant role in his first two seasons, recording 26 tackles, a sack and a fumble recovery in 18 games. But on Thursday, it was revealed that Kneeland had passed away due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning,” the Cowboys said in a statement. “Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family.”
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In the wake of Kneeland’s tragic passing, the NFL has asked all teams to hold a moment of silence before each Week 10 game. The tribute will be followed by a message promoting suicide awareness and prevention.
“The NFL sent a memo to all teams Friday, asking them to hold a moment of silence Sunday as part of the pre-game ceremonies in memory of the late Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland,” wrote ESPN’s Adam Schefter. “The moment of silence will be followed by a message read in all NFL stadiums that says, If you or someone you know is struggling or needs emotional support, please call or text 988. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24-7 to help.”
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The Cowboys will face the Raiders on Nov. 17, at 8:15 p.m. ET in Week 11’s edition of “Monday Night Football.”
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.