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Kevin Seifert
Multiple Authors
Rondale Moore, a former Purdue standout and NFL wide receiver, passed away Saturday at the age of 25.
According to police in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana, Moore was discovered in a garage with a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation is ongoing. Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin confirmed Moore’s death and stated an autopsy would take place on Sunday.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Rondale Moore,” the Vikings expressed in a statement. “As we work to grasp the facts, we’ve reached out to Rondale’s family to extend our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings. We’ve also communicated with our players, coaches, and staff, ensuring that counseling and emotional support resources are available for those in need. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this heartbreaking time.”
Drafted in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals in 2021, Moore faced injuries that sidelined him for the past two seasons. He was out for the 2024 season due to a dislocated right knee sustained while playing for the Atlanta Falcons.
Recently, he trained with the Vikings, participating in their 2025 offseason and training camp, until he suffered a season-ending left knee injury while returning a punt on August 9 in the preseason opener.
“I am heartbroken by the news of Rondale’s passing,” Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell shared in a statement. “Though Rondale was with the Vikings for a brief period, we formed a connection and cared for him deeply. He was a humble and respectful young man, proud of his Indiana roots. As a player, he showed discipline, dedication, and resilience throughout his career, despite enduring many injuries.
“It breaks our hearts that he will not fulfill his NFL dream, and we will miss watching him thrive. My prayers are with Rondale’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches as we navigate this tragic news.”
The Cardinals released a statement expressing their “devastation and heartbreak.”
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who loved and had the privilege of knowing such a remarkable person,” the team shared via social media.
Throughout his three seasons with the Cardinals, Moore started 23 games, completed 135 receptions for 1,201 yards, and scored three touchdowns, along with rushing 52 times for 249 yards and one touchdown.
“It’s impossible to process this,” former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt commented on social media. “It’s just too soon. So much potential remains unfulfilled. Rest in peace, Rondale.”
Moore grew up in New Albany, just beyond the Indiana border from Louisville, Kentucky, earning first team All-American honors as a freshman at Purdue in 2018. That year, he also claimed the Paul Hornung Award for most versatile player, recording 1,915 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 248 yards and three touchdowns in three seasons at Purdue.
“Rondale Moore was a true pleasure to coach,” said Louisville’s Jeff Brohm, who led Moore at Purdue. “He was the ultimate competitor who faced every challenge head-on. His work ethic was unmatched, making him a reliable teammate in any situation. We adored Rondale for his smile and competitive spirit that aimed to impress everyone he met. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Rondale and his family; we will forever cherish him.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
