Dallas Cowboys player who died by suicide diagnosed with brain disease
Former Dallas Cowboys player Marshawn Kneeland, who died by suicide in 2025, was diagnosed with stage 1 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) postmortem. His family shared the diagnosis to raise awareness about the mental health struggles faced by athletes in high-contact sports.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing medical crisis regarding brain health in professional sports and the long-term risks associated with contact sports.
Image source, Getty Images By Madeline Halpert Published 7 July 2026 Updated 2 hours ago NFL player Marshawn Kneeland was suffering from stage 1 chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) when he died by suicide last year, scientists have said.
The article relies on medical findings and family statements, presenting the information objectively without sensationalism.
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