An in-depth look at his life, career, and impact
Early Life in Michigan
Marshawn Kneeland was born July 8, 2001, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He attended Godwin Heights High School in Wyoming, Michigan. At Godwin Heights he played multiple roles — on defense as a linebacker, and even on offense as a tight end. Western Michigan University Athletics
In his senior year, Kneeland recorded about 110 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and 8 sacks. On offense he made roughly 20 receptions for 330 yards and 5 touchdowns. Western Michigan University Athletics
His athleticism wasn’t just on the football field: he competed in the 400-meter run and high jump in track and field. Western Michigan University Athletics
From early on, Kneeland showed a mix of strength, versatility and high motor — traits that would carry him forward.
College Career at Western Michigan University
Freshman to Sophomore Years
Kneeland enrolled at Western Michigan in 2019. In that initial year he saw limited playing time, appearing in just a game or two. Western Michigan University Athletics
In 2020 (a pandemic-shortened season) he appeared in 5 games, started 3, and posted about 23 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Western Michigan University Athletics
In 2021, he played all 13 games, registered 32 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. Western Michigan University Athletics
Breakthrough Seasons
In 2022, Kneeland took a step forward: in nine games he posted 37 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He also added five quarterback hurries and three pass breakups. Western Michigan University Athletics
In his final full season, 2023, he played nine games and finished with career highs: 57 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and eight QB hurries. He also earned Second-Team All-MAC honors. Western Michigan University Athletics
Style and Attributes
Coming out of college, Kneeland measured about 6-3 and 268 lbs. Pro Football Reference
Scouting reports described him as a high-motor, power-based defensive end with good size and strength, who showed strong ability against the run and setting the edge. nfldraftbuzz.com
At the same time, scouts noted he needed to improve his pass rush burst, hand usage, and consistency to succeed at the NFL level. nfldraftbuzz.com
College Career Totals
His collegiate stats reflect steady growth. According to StatMuse, he accumulated approximately 82 solo tackles, 47 assists and 12.5 sacks during his college career. StatMuse Other sources list him at about 149 total tackles and 12.5 sacks. Wikipedia
Entering the NFL: Dallas Cowboys Draft
In the 2024 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Kneeland in the 2nd round, 56th overall. sports-reference.com
This pick reflected the Cowboys’ belief in his upside — someone who could develop into a contributor on the defensive line.
Joining a storied franchise like Dallas means expectations are high. Kneeland arrived knowing he’d have to prove himself, adapt quickly, and earn his role.
NFL Career and Role with the Cowboys
Rookie Season (2024)
As a rookie, Kneeland played in 11 games, made 14 total tackles (9 solo, 5 assisted) and appeared mostly in a rotational role. Pro Football Reference
He got limited starts and his role included special teams and situational defensive snaps.
Second Season (2025)
In the early part of the 2025 season, Kneeland had recorded at least one sack, and had played in a handful of games (about 6 according to available stats) with 12 tackles (6 solo, 6 assisted). ESPN.com
His snap count showed increasing trust: in 2025 he played around 149 defensive snaps and 20 special-teams snaps (per Pro Football Reference). Pro Football Reference
Role and Fit
Within the Cowboys’ defense, Kneeland was part of the rotational front, tasked with setting the edge against the run and contributing as a developing pass rusher. He was behind veterans but the plan seemed to be to groom him for a larger role.
His work ethic, willingness to learn, and team-first attitude were frequently mentioned by coaches and teammates.
Strengths, Areas for Growth & Projection
Strengths
- Strong frame with good length and ability to set the edge.
- Excellent effort and hustle, which allowed him to make plays beyond his athletic baseline.
- Experience against quality competition and steady improvement over his college career suggested a high ceiling.
Areas for Growth
- Rushing the passer at the NFL level demands elite burst and refined technique — areas Kneeland needed to sharpen.
- Finishing plays and generating consistent disruptive plays (sacks, pressures) rather than just tackles.
- Durability and health — like many young players, availability matters.
Projection
Given his background and early production, Kneeland’s trajectory suggested he could become a quality rotational player, and with continued development possibly a full-time starter. For the Cowboys, he represented a part of the young core on defense with upside.
Personal Life, Character & Off-Field Notes
Beyond the field, Kneeland was known as a grounded young man with strong character. He often spoke about the value of hard work, the support of his family (his parents Wendy and Shawn) and his gratitude for his football opportunities. Western Michigan University Athletics
His mixture of humility and ambition resonated with coaches and teammates alike.
Legacy and Reflection
Though his professional career was still in its early phase, Marshawn Kneeland left an impression: from his roots in Michigan, to his college growth at Western Michigan, to making the leap to the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys.
His story is a reminder of how many young athletes climb through ranks with incremental improvement rather than instant stardom. It’s about showing up, working, and making the most of opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What college did Marshawn Kneeland attend?
A: Western Michigan University. Western Michigan University Athletics
Q: When was Marshawn Kneeland drafted and by whom?
A: He was drafted in the 2nd round, 56th overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 2024. Pro Football Reference
Q: What are his college career stats?
A: Roughly 149 total tackles and 12.5 sacks over his college career. Wikipedia
Q: What are his early NFL stats?
A: By early 2025 he had about 26 tackles (15 solo, 11 assisted) and 1.0 sack over 17 games played. Pro Football Reference
Q: What is his role with the Cowboys?
A: He is a defensive end working in a rotational front, tasked with edge setting and developing pass rush skills.
Q: What attributes make him stand out?
A: His size, effort, motor, and run-defense ability are strong suits; his finishing and refinement in the pass rush are areas to grow.
Final Thoughts
Marshawn Kneeland’s journey — from a two‐star recruit in Michigan, to building steadily at Western Michigan, to earning a second-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys — is a story of perseverance, development, and quiet promise.
In a league obsessed with instant playmakers, his kind of story can sometimes fly under the radar. Yet, for fans who watch the trenches and appreciate the growth part of the game, Kneeland represented hope: of what’s next, of player development, of doing the little things right.
As he continues his career, the foundation is laid. If he remains healthy, refines his skills, and seizes the moments, the Cowboys’ investment in him may well pay dividends. For now, we watch, we appreciate, and we root for his next chapter.
1 thought on “Marshawn Kneeland: From Michigan Standout to Cowboys Defensive End”