Rondale Moore, Vikings Wide Receiver, Dies at 25
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore has died at the age of 25, according to authorities in New Albany, Indiana. The tragic news broke on Saturday, February 21, 2026, sending shockwaves through the NFL community.
Investigation into Moore’s Death
New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey stated that Moore was found deceased in a garage with what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy is scheduled for Sunday to determine the exact cause of death. The investigation is ongoing.
NFL and Team Responses
The NFL, the Vikings organization, and head coach Kevin O’Connell all released statements expressing their deep sadness and offering condolences to Moore’s family and friends. The Vikings have offered full support to Moore’s family and are making counseling and emotional support resources available to players, coaches, and staff.
The Vikings shared a statement on X (formerly Twitter) expressing their heartbreak.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Moore’s NFL journey began when he was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He played three seasons for the Cardinals before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons. Unfortunately, injuries plagued his professional career.
He missed the entire 2024 season due to a knee injury sustained during training camp with the Falcons. In 2025, Moore signed with the Minnesota Vikings, hoping to revitalize his career, but another torn ACL ended his season before it began.
College Standout at Purdue
Before entering the NFL, Moore was a standout player at Purdue University. As a freshman in 2018, he was an All-American, accumulating 1,471 yards on 135 touches and scoring 14 touchdowns. He set a Purdue record for total yards in a game against Northwestern, with 313 all-purpose yards.
Moore won the Paul Hornung Award in 2018, recognizing him as the nation’s most versatile player. His college coach, Jeff Brohm, expressed his sorrow, describing Moore as a complete joy to coach, an unmatched worker, and a great teammate.
Early NFL Success and Injury Struggles
During his rookie season with the Cardinals in 2021, Moore caught 54 passes for 435 yards and one touchdown, also averaging 22.4 yards on 13 kickoff returns. But, injuries limited him to playing in 39 of 51 possible games over three seasons with Arizona.
Resources for Those in Crisis
If you or someone you recognize is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
FAQ
Q: What was the cause of Rondale Moore’s death?
A: Authorities are investigating his death as a possible suicide by gunshot, but an autopsy is pending.
Q: What teams did Rondale Moore play for?
A: He played for the Arizona Cardinals, the Atlanta Falcons, and the Minnesota Vikings.
Q: Where did Rondale Moore play college football?
A: He played college football at Purdue University.
Q: What awards did Rondale Moore win in college?
A: He was an All-American and won the Paul Hornung Award in 2018.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling. We find resources available, and you are not alone.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or need support, please consider contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can connect with people who can support you by calling or texting 988 anytime in the US and Canada. In the UK, you can call 111.
