Entertainment News4 min(s) read
Published 11:23 23 Feb 2026 GMT
The NFL community is in mourning after Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore was found dead at the age of 25.
The three-season NFL veteran was discovered in the garage of a property in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana, on Saturday night, per BBC Sport.
Police were called to the scene, and Moore was transferred to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
An official investigation was launched immediately, with a post-mortem examination scheduled to take place on Sunday.
New Albany police chief Todd Bailey has since confirmed that the 25-year-old’s cause of death is a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Minnesota Vikings paid tribute to the young wide receiver in a heartfelt statement following the devastating news.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore,” the Vikings said.
It continued: "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.”
Head coach Kevin O'Connell also spoke movingly about Moore’s impact during his short time with the franchise.
"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," O'Connell 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 entered the league as one of the most exciting young prospects in recent memory. Following an impressive college career at Purdue — where he racked up 114 catches for 1,258 yards and 12 touchdowns — he declared for the 2021 NFL Draft.
The wide receiver was selected as a second-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2021 draft and spent three seasons in Arizona. During that time, he made 135 catches for 1,201 yards and appeared in 39 games across his NFL career.
In March 2024, Moore was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. However, his time there was marred by injury after he suffered a year-ending knee injury during training, ruling him out of the entire 2024 campaign.
He later signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in March 2025, hoping to revive his career. But once again, injury struck, with another knee issue ruling him out for a second consecutive season.
Despite the setbacks, those who worked closely with Moore consistently praised his resilience and dedication.
The National Football League said it was “deeply saddened” by the “tragic passing” of Moore.
The Cardinals also released a statement expressing their heartbreak.
"We are devastated and heartbroken by today's news," the team said.
"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, team-mates, and everyone who loved him and had the privilege of knowing such a special person."
Former Cardinals teammate J. J. Watt shared an emotional message on social media.
"Can't even begin to fathom or process this," he wrote. "There's just no way. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in peace Rondale."
The NFL Players Association, the union representing players’ welfare, also addressed the tragedy.
"In moments like this, we are reminded of how much our players carry, on and off the field.
"To our members: please know that support is always within reach. Check on your team-mates and prioritise your mental health."
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
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