Rondale Moore, NFL Wide Receiver, Dies at 25

Rondale Moore, a wide receiver who played in the National Football League for five seasons, has died, the Minnesota Vikings announced Saturday. He was 25 years old.

Early Reports and Confirmation

Initial reports indicated Moore was found in a garage in Modern Albany, Indiana, with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound WHAS11. Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin stated an autopsy will be conducted on Sunday to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

NFL and Team Statements

The Minnesota Vikings released a statement expressing their deep sadness and offering condolences to Moore’s family. The team confirmed they were working to understand the facts and were providing support to players, coaches, and staff, making counseling and emotional support resources available ESPN.

Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell described Moore as a “humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man” who was proud of his Indiana roots. He highlighted Moore’s discipline, dedication, and resilience despite facing injuries throughout his career. O’Connell expressed heartbreak that Moore would not continue to pursue his NFL dream.

Professional Career

Moore was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round (49th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. During his three seasons with the Cardinals, he started 23 games, recording 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns. He also contributed as a rusher, gaining 249 yards and scoring one touchdown on 52 carries Wikipedia.

After his time with the Cardinals, Moore played for the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, where he suffered a dislocated right knee. He most recently joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, but his season ended after suffering a season-ending left knee injury while returning a punt in a preseason game on August 9th.

College Career at Purdue

Prior to his NFL career, Moore excelled at Purdue University. In 2018, as a freshman, he earned Consensus All-American honors as an all-purpose player and won the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player. Over three seasons with the Boilermakers, he amassed 1,915 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, adding 248 rushing yards and three touchdowns Wikipedia.

Jeff Brohm, Moore’s coach at Purdue, described him as a complete joy to coach, an ultimate competitor with an unmatched work ethic and a great teammate ESPN.

Early Life

Moore was born on June 9, 2000, in New Albany, Indiana Wikipedia. He grew up alongside NBA player Romeo Langford, with whom he played basketball until their sophomore year of high school.