Rondale Moore, a wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings and former college football standout, has died at the age of 25, the team confirmed Saturday.
According to police in southern Indiana, Moore was found in a garage with a gunshot wound that authorities believe was self-inflicted. The investigation is ongoing.
In a statement, Vikings head coach Alex O’Connell said the organization was “devastated” by the news, describing Moore as humble, respectful and deeply proud of his Indiana roots. He added that the team is heartbroken that Moore will not have the opportunity to continue pursuing his NFL dream.
Moore rose to national prominence as a freshman at Purdue Boilermakers, delivering one of the most electric debut performances in program history. In his first collegiate game, he recorded 313 all-purpose yards, including both a receiving and rushing touchdown.
He went on to total 2,048 all-purpose yards in 2018, earning consensus All-American honors along with the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player and Big Ten Receiver and Freshman of the Year awards.
Injuries limited him during the remainder of his college career, but his explosiveness and playmaking ability made him a top NFL prospect. He was selected in the second round (49th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals.
Moore spent three seasons in Arizona, compiling 1,201 career receiving yards before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons. However, recurring knee injuries sidelined him for extended stretches, including the entire 2024 season. He later signed a one-year deal with Minnesota but suffered another season-ending knee injury in the preseason.
Teammates and players across the league shared messages of shock and grief on social media, remembering Moore not only for his talent but also for his character and competitive spirit.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing thoughts of suicide, support is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat via 988lifeline.org.
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