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PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 04: A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on during warmups before the NFL 2025 game between Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on September 04, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Just two days after the devastating news that former NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore died at age 25, Philadelphia Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown shared a raw, nine-minute emotional message directed at the NFL community.
“Don’t take the easy way out. I once thought that was the way,” A.J. Brown said, his voice heavy with emotion.
Moore was a former Purdue standout and second-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2021. On Saturday, he was found dead in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana, with what authorities described as a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. The death remains under investigation. He was 25.
The Vikings, Moore’s most recent team, released a statement offering condolences and making counseling resources available to players and staff. Former teammates and coaches described him as humble, resilient and deeply respected throughout the league.
It was clear the news hit Brown hard.
“I want to spread some awareness around mental health,” he said. “It’s been a tough past year and week for the NFL community. We are a brotherhood no matter what team we play.”
John Clark
“Don’t take the easy way out. I once thought that was the way.”
-AJ Brown shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram about mental health and the death of former Vikings receiver Rondale Moore. AJ is speaking to other NFL players, saying he was in the same spot when he was 23
A.J. Brown: “I Was 23 and Thought the Same Thing”
A.J. Brown revealed he once stood in the same place Moore may have been.
“I was 23 and thought the same thing,” Brown shared. “I once thought that was the way. Don’t take the easy way out.”
He spoke directly to NFL players battling doubt, disappointment and pressure.
“Things aren’t going to always go your way. You’re not going to get everything you desire. Sometimes this game is not friendly. But none of those things define you.”
Additionally, Brown reminded players that reaching the NFL already represents an extraordinary accomplishment.
“You already made it to the NFL. Don’t get down on yourself.”
He pointed to perspective that extends beyond football.
“I have so much life ahead of me, so many family members that love me. I have two kids and a beautiful [life]. God has so much in store for you guys. So much more than just a game of football.”
A.J. Brown: “Healing Is Part of the Grind Too”
A.J. Brown described himself as someone who practices mental health advocacy daily.
“I myself represent a mental health advocate. It’s something I practice each and every day.”
His message was deeply faith-driven but also practical.
“You have to see God. Go talk to someone. Go talk to God. Talk to a therapist. Talk to your loved ones. You are not too tough to talk to someone.”
He urged players to stay patient through hard seasons:
“You have to keep going. There’s no failure in this life. You’re on your own timeline.”
Brown ended his message with hope.
“That sun is going to shine. It ain’t going to stay rainy forever. I want to tell you all, stay in it. No matter where you at, no matter what team you are on, stay in that fight.”
In a league built on toughness, Brown’s vulnerability proved just as powerful.
In the wake of Rondale Moore’s death and the ongoing mental health struggles facing players, Brown’s emotional message felt like something the NFL community truly needed.