The football world is grieving the death of Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore, who was found dead on Saturday in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana. He was 25.
Local authorities said Moore was discovered in a garage and that his death is believed to be the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The case remains under investigation, and Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin confirmed that an autopsy was scheduled.
Moore’s passing stunned teammates and coaches, particularly within the Minnesota Vikings organization, which he joined in 2025. The team said, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore. While we are working to understand the facts, we have spoken with Rondale’s family to offer our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings.” The Vikings also noted they are providing counseling resources to players and staff.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell shared his heartbreak in a statement: “I am devastated by the news of Rondale’s death. While Rondale had been a member of the Vikings for a short time, he was someone we came to know well and care about deeply. He was a humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man who was proud of his Indiana roots.” He added that Moore showed remarkable perseverance despite repeated injuries and said, “We are all heartbroken by the fact he won’t continue to live out his NFL dream and we won’t all have a chance to watch him flourish.”
Moore, a New Albany native located just across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, was widely regarded as one of the most dynamic young talents in football. A standout at Purdue University, Moore burst onto the national scene in 2018, earning first-team All-American honors as a freshman and winning the Paul Hornung Award for versatility. Over three collegiate seasons, he totaled 1,915 receiving yards and 14 touchdown catches, along with additional production as a runner.
The Arizona Cardinals selected Moore in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Across three seasons in Arizona, he recorded 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns, added 249 rushing yards and another score, and handled return duties early in his career before injuries limited his role. He was traded to the Atlanta Falcons ahead of the 2024 season but dislocated his right knee during training camp and did not appear in a game. After signing with Minnesota in 2025, he suffered a torn left knee while returning a punt in the team’s preseason opener, landing him on injured reserve for a second straight year.
The Cardinals said they were “devastated and heartbroken,” adding, “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who loved him and had the privilege of knowing such a special person.” Former teammate J.J. Watt also wrote, “Can’t even begin to fathom or process this. There’s just no way. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in peace Rondale.”
Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue, reflected on the player he mentored: “Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach. The ultimate competitor that wouldn’t back down from any challenge. Rondale had a work ethic unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. We all loved Rondale, we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all of our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family, we love him very much.”
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