Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore died Saturday, the Floyd County (Ind.) coroner confirmed to The Athletic. He was 25 years old.
According to multiple reports by news outlets in Minnesota and Indiana, New Albany (Ind.) Chief of Police Todd Bailey said Moore was found inside a garage and that he died from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday, according to the reports.
The NFL, the Vikings and head coach Kevin O’Connell as well as his former teams, the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons, also released statements on Saturday regarding Moore’s death.
“The NFL is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Rondale Moore. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time,” the league stated.
The Vikings said in a statement that they have spoken with Moore’s family to offer condolences and the full support of the organization.
“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,” the team stated. “Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
O’Connell said in a statement that he is “devastated” by Moore’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,” O’Connell said. “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.”
The Cardinals said on social media that the organization was “devastated and heartbroken,” writing that it was a privilege “knowing such a special person.” The Falcons said on social media that their thoughts and prayers are with Moore’s family and friends.
Moore burst onto the national scene as a freshman at Purdue in 2018. That season, he racked up 1,471 scrimmage yards and another 662 on 33 kickoff returns, scoring 12 receiving touchdowns and earning All-America honors. He broke the Purdue single-game record for all-purpose yards in his first collegiate game, putting up 109 yards receiving, 79 yards rushing (on only two carries) and 125 kickoff return yards for 313 total against Northwestern.
He won the Paul Hornung Award for the nation’s most versatile player that season.
Current Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue, issued a statement on social media Saturday night:
“Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach. The ultimate competitor who 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 his competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family. We love him very much.”
Arizona drafted Moore in the second round (49th overall) in 2021. He caught 54 passes for 435 yards and a touchdown as rookie, and he also averaged 22.4 yards on 13 kickoff returns that season. Moore battled injuries throughout his career, playing in 39 out of a possible 51 games in three seasons with the Cardinals.
The Cardinals traded Moore to the Falcons prior to the 2024 season, but he suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp. He then signed with the Vikings as a free agent before the start of last season, but again suffered a season-ending knee injury during a preseason game.
The NFL Players Association also released a statement on Saturday calling Moore’s death a tragic, immense loss and offered condolences and prayers to his family, teammates and loved ones. The NFLPA also emphasized to union members the importance of mental health and the availability of confidential resources.
“In moments like this, we are reminded of how much our players carry, on and off the field,” the NFLPA said. “To our members: please know that support is always within reach. Check on your teammates and prioritize your mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to take advantage of the many confidential resources and services available to you through the NFLPA.”
Moore was born in New Albany and played at New Albany High School as well as Trinity High School in Louisville.
–Field Level Media
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