The NFL community is reeling from the tragic loss of Rondale Moore, a former Purdue star and wide receiver who died Saturday at the age of 25. Authorities in New Albany, Indiana, reported finding Moore in a garage with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound, and the death remains under investigation pending an autopsy scheduled for Sunday.
The news sent shockwaves through the league, prompting immediate statements from the Minnesota Vikings, Moore’s most recent team, and the Arizona Cardinals, where he began his professional career. The Vikings expressed their deep sadness and confirmed they had been in contact with Moore’s family, offering support and counseling resources to players, coaches, and staff.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore,” the Vikings said in a statement. “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’s NFL journey began with the Arizona Cardinals, who selected him in the second round of the 2021 draft. Over three seasons with the Cardinals, he started 23 games, amassing 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns. He also demonstrated versatility as a rusher, gaining 249 yards and scoring one touchdown on 52 carries. Former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt expressed his disbelief and grief on social media, stating, “Can’t even begin to fathom or process this. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in peace Rondale.”
Injuries unfortunately plagued Moore’s recent career. He missed the entire 2024 season after dislocating his right knee while with the Atlanta Falcons. He then signed with the Vikings in 2025, hoping to revive his career, but suffered a season-ending left knee injury while returning a punt during a preseason game on .
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his devastation, acknowledging the impact Moore had even in a short time with the team. “I am devastated by the news of Rondale’s death,” O’Connell said. “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’s collegiate career at Purdue was nothing short of spectacular. He earned consensus first-team All-American honors as a freshman in 2018, showcasing his exceptional versatility as an all-purpose player. That year, he had 1,915 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns, winning the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player. He finished his three seasons with the Boilermakers with 1,915 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, adding 248 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
Jeff Brohm, Moore’s coach at Purdue and now the head coach at Louisville, remembered Moore as a joy to coach and a fierce competitor. “Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach,” Brohm said. “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.”
The Cardinals also released a statement, expressing their devastation and extending condolences to Moore’s family, friends, and teammates. “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,” the team said in a social media post.
Moore’s death is a stark reminder of the pressures and challenges faced by professional athletes, and the importance of mental health support. The Vikings have pledged to provide counseling and emotional support resources to those within the organization who need them. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is ongoing, with an autopsy expected to provide further clarity.
