Vikings WR Rondale Moore Dies at Age 25
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore died on Saturday at the age of 25.
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert wrote, “Police in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana, told The Associated Press that Moore was found in a garage with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. The death remained under investigation. Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin also confirmed Moore’s death. He said an autopsy would be conducted on Sunday.”
Moore signed with the Vikings last offseason, but a significant knee injury suffered in the preseason prevented him from appearing during the 2025 season.
The Minnesota Vikings released the following statement: “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. We have also been in communication with our players, coaches, and staff, and will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
Moore had an electric freshman season at Purdue, but injuries derailed his college career. He led the Big Ten in receptions (114), receiving yards (1,258), and receiving touchdowns (12). Moore also added 213 rushing yards and two touchdowns and was a dynamic punt and kick returner. In the following two seasons, he was limited to a total of seven games.
In three years with the Cardinals, he logged 1,201 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Cardinals then traded him to Atlanta in the 2024 offseason, but he missed the season with a knee injury suffered in training camp.
Last year, the Vikings hoped he could bounce back, but his second devastating knee injury robbed him of another season.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell commented, “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. As a player, he was disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career.”
“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. My prayers are with Rondale’s family, friends, teammates and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news.”
Moore was 25 and is survived by his family and loved ones.