NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore has died at the age of 25, with tributes flowing in for the Minnesota Vikings player who had battled injury throughout his career
Wide receiver Rondale Moore
Wide receiver Rondale Moore has died(Image: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore has died at the age of 25. Police in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana, confirmed Moore was discovered dead on Saturday.
Moore's death remains under investigation, with a post-mortem examination scheduled to take place on Sunday. Tributes have swiftly poured in for the second-round pick out of Purdue.
"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 NFL said in a statement.
"Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach," Jeff Brohm, who worked with Moore at Purdue 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."
Moore spent three years with the Cardinals following his selection by the franchise in the 2021 NFL Draft. He was subsequently traded to the Atlanta Falcons in March 2024.
The receiver missed the whole of the 2024 season after sustaining an injury during training camp, before putting pen to paper on a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings in March 2025. Sadly, another knee injury meant he was absent for a second straight season.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore," the Vikings said in a statement. "Whilst 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. "
Rondale Moore
Rondale Moore found dead(Image: Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
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"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."
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed his heartbreak. "Whilst 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 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."
Moore's ex-team-mate at Arizona, three-time defensive player of the year JJ Watt, also shared his tribute. "Can't even begin to fathom or process this," he said. "There's just no way. Way too soon.
"Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in Peace Rondale."