Rondale Moore, the former Purdue standout and NFL wide receiver, has died at 25, the Minnesota Vikings confirmed in a statement released on Saturday.
Moore’s sudden death occurred in New Albany, Indiana, where police reported he was found in a garage with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin said an autopsy would be performed the following day, but did not share further details about the circumstances surrounding his passing.
The Vikings expressed their condolences, noting that they are still gathering facts while offering full support to Moore’s family. They also mentioned they have been connecting with Moore’s teammates, coaches, and staff and will provide counseling and emotional support resources as needed. The organization extended its thoughts to Moore’s family and friends during this heartbreaking time.
Moore entered the league as a second-round pick for the Arizona Cardinals in 2021. He spent two injury-plagued seasons before moving to the Vikings, where he participated in the 2025 offseason program and training camp. His 2025 preseason game, a punt return, ended with a season-ending left knee injury.
Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Moore as a humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man with strong Indiana roots. O’Connell highlighted Moore’s discipline, dedication, and resilience in the face of repeated injuries that interrupted his NFL path. He extended prayers to Moore’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches as they cope with the tragedy.
During his time with the Cardinals, Moore appeared in 23 games as a starter and accumulated 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns. He also added 52 rushes for 249 yards and one score. In college at Purdue, Moore earned recognition as an Associated Press first-team All-American for his all-purpose versatility as a freshman in 2018 and received the Paul Hornung Award for the most versatile player. Across three seasons with the Boilermakers, he compiled 1,915 receiving yards with 14 touchdowns and added 248 rushing yards with three more touchdowns.
Louisville coach Jeff Brohm, who mentored Moore at Purdue, remembered him as a formidable competitor and an exceptional worker. Brohm praised Moore’s relentless drive, his cooperative spirit as a teammate, and the constructive energy he brought to every challenge. He extended thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his loved ones, expressing how much he will be missed by the Purdue family.
This report includes contributions from the Associated Press.
