Moore died of a “suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound,” police told EW.

Rondale Moore, NFL receiver for the Minnesota Vikings, dies at 25

Moore died of a "suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound," police told EW.

By Shania Russell

Shania Russell

Shania Russell is a news writer at *, *with five years of experience. Her work has previously appeared in SlashFilm and Paste Magazine.

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February 22, 2026 1:21 p.m. ET

Rondale Moore on the Arizona Cardinals in 2023. Credit:

Cooper Neill/Getty

Rondale Moore has died at age 25 of an apparent gunshot wound. The Minnesota Vikings wide receiver was discovered unresponsive in his Indiana home.

On Saturday, Feb. 21, the NFL star was pronounced dead after his body was found in the garage of his New Albany, Ind., residence. In a statement shared with **, New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey said that Moore died of a "suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound." The investigation remains ongoing.

Moore's death was also confirmed by Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin, who announced that an autopsy would take place on Sunday.

Born June 9, 2000, Moore began his career as a standout college football player at Purdue, making waves and setting records during his 2018 freshman year. That season saw Moore catch 114 passes for 1,258 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also set a Purdue record for all-purpose yardage.

Rondale Moore on the Minnesota Vikings in August 2025.

Kara Durrette/Getty

When 2021 rolled around, Moore was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round. He played three seasons in Arizona, starting 23 games and producing just three touchdowns before getting traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. There, Moore suffered a season-ending injury, dislocating his knee during training camp practice. In March 2025, Moore joined the Minnesota Vikings, but was again injured, this time during a preseason game.

In a statement shared on social media, the Vikings mourned the death of their teammate.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore," the post began. "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."

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In his own statement, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell wrote that he was "devastated" by the news of Moore's death.

"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 continued. "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."

Rondale Moore on the Arizona Cardinals in 2023.

Ryan Kang/Getty

University of Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue, called him an "ultimate competitor," adding that he "wouldn’t back down from any challenge."

Brohm continued, "Rondale had a work ethic unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. We all loved Rondale, we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all of our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family, we love him very much."

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Moore was also mourned by three-time defensive player of the year JJ Watt, who played alongside him in Arizona: "Can’t even begin to fathom or process this," Watt wrote on X. "There’s just no way. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in Peace Rondale."**

*If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.*

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