Rondale Moore, Former NFL Wide Receiver, Dies at 25
Rondale Moore, a wide receiver who most recently played for the Minnesota Vikings, has died at the age of 25. Authorities are investigating his death, which occurred on Saturday in New Albany, Indiana.
Details of the Incident
According to New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey, Moore was found in a garage with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound CBS Sports. An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday to determine the official cause of death CBS Sports.
NFL Career
Moore spent five seasons in the NFL after a standout career at Purdue University. He was initially drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft Sports Illustrated. During his time with the Cardinals, he recorded 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns, along with 52 carries for 249 yards and one touchdown. He likewise contributed on special teams with 22 punt returns for 182 yards and 13 kickoff returns for 291 yards CBS Sports.
Following his time in Arizona, Moore was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 but suffered a season-ending knee injury during training camp CBS Sports. He then signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, but again sustained a knee injury in the preseason, sidelining him for the entire season Arizona Sports.
Reactions from Teams and Players
The Minnesota Vikings released a statement expressing their sadness and offering support to Moore’s family CBS Sports. The Cardinals also issued a statement, saying they were “devastated and heartbroken” by the news CBS Sports.
Former Cardinals defensive lineman J.J. Watt expressed his shock and grief on X (formerly Twitter), stating he was “way too soon” and “way too special” Arizona Sports. Hollywood Brown, a former teammate, also shared his disbelief and sadness on social media Arizona Sports.
College Career at Purdue
Moore had a remarkable freshman season at Purdue University in 2018, earning consensus All-American honors and winning the Paul Warfield Trophy. He amassed 1,258 receiving yards, 213 rushing yards, and 14 total touchdowns in just seven games CBS Sports. His college coach, Jeff Brohm, described him as a “complete joy to coach” and an “ultimate competitor” Arizona Sports.