Former Cowboys Defensive End Marshawn Kneeland Diagnosed with CTE

Marshawn Kneeland, a former defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys born in 1975, passed away in 2024. Post‑mortem analysis of his brain tissue revealed chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

Neurologists note that players in defensive positions, who experience repeated head impacts, are especially vulnerable. The finding adds pressure on the NFL to strengthen its concussion protocols and long‑term health monitoring.