Rondale Moore, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver and former second-round draft pick, died on Saturday, sending shockwaves through the NFL community. The 25-year-old was found deceased in the garage of the property of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy will be conducted Sunday.
Before his time in the NFL, Moore starred at Purdue where he was one of the most explosive players in all college football. As a freshman, he won the Paul Hornung Award, given to the most versatile player in college football and the Paul Warfield Trophy, given to the nation's best receiver. A second-round draft pick by Arizona in 2021, Moore caught 135 passes for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing 52 times for 249 yards and one score with the Cardinals.
In 2024 he dislocated his right knee during training camp with the Atlanta Falcons, and he never played for them. Moore attempted to make a comeback with Minnesota in 2025 but was injured while returning a punt in the first exhibition game. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said in a statement: "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. He was a humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man who was proud of his Indiana roots."
"We are devastated and heartbroken by today's news concerning Rondale Moore," the Cardinals said in a statement. "Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who loved him and had the privilege of knowing such a special person." His coach at Purdue, Jeff Brohm, released a statement addressing his late star player: "Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach." The Vikings have made counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need.