Rondale Moore, Former NFL Receiver, Dies at 25

Former Purdue and NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore died Saturday at the age of 25, according to his college coach Jeff Brohm. Police in New Albany, Indiana, are investigating his death as a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Early Investigation and Confirmation

New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey confirmed Moore was found dead in a garage on Saturday. The Floyd County Coroner, Matthew Tomlin, also confirmed the death and stated an autopsy would be conducted on Sunday ESPN.

NFL and Team Statements

The Minnesota Vikings, Moore’s most recent team, released a statement expressing their sadness and offering condolences to his family. They indicated they had been in contact with Moore’s family and would provide counseling and emotional support resources to players, coaches, and staff ESPN. Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell described Moore as a “humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man” and praised his dedication despite facing injuries throughout his career ESPN.

The Arizona Cardinals, where Moore began his NFL career, stated they were “devastated and heartbroken” and extended their condolences to his family, friends, and teammates ESPN.

Career Overview

Moore was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft after a standout career at Purdue University, where he was named a first-team All-American as a freshman in 2018 Yahoo Sports. Over three seasons with the Cardinals, he recorded 1,201 receiving yards, three touchdowns, 249 rushing yards, and one touchdown Yahoo Sports and Sports Illustrated.

He was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 but suffered a dislocated right knee during training camp, sidelining him for the entire season. He then signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025, but suffered a season-ending left knee injury while returning a punt in a preseason game ESPN.

Tributes from Coaches and Teammates

Jeff Brohm, Moore’s former coach at Purdue and current head coach at Louisville, described Moore as a “complete joy to coach” and praised his work ethic and competitive spirit Purdue Sports. Former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt expressed his shock and grief on social media, stating Moore had “so much left to give” ESPN.