Minnesota Vikings Wide Receiver Rondale Moore Has Passed Away at Age 25

It’s with heavy regret to share that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore, known as an impressive three-sport athlete, has passed away.

The talent was only 25.

Rondale, who began his career at New Albany High School in Indiana, had his death announced by the team on Feb. 21, 2026.

Although Rondale was in the process of healing from knee injuries, fans anxiously awaited his return to the field. As such, the news of his transition has rocked the league and fans alike. So, what exactly happened to Rondale Moore? Here’s everything that we know.

According to NBC News, Rondale was pronounced dead on the evening of Feb. 21, 2026, after his body was found in a garage of a property in his hometown of New Albany, Ind.

Law enforcement shared that his death is believed to have been caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

"The New Albany Police Department is conducting a death investigation at 1611 Ekin Ave in New Albany," Bailey said in a statement, per Yahoo Sports. "Rondale Moore was found deceased in the garage of the property of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.:

He continued: "The New Albany Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into the incident. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no additional information will be released at this time."

The Minnesota Vikings organization immediately shared its condolences with the family and announced that it “has also been in communication with our players, coaches, and staff, and will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need.”

"I am devastated by the news of Rondale's death,” Viking head coach Kevin O’Connell shared. “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. As a player, he was disciplined, dedicated, and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career."

He continued: "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. My prayers are with Rondale's family, friends, teammates, and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news."

If you are unfamiliar with Rondale, allow us to introduce you to his accomplishments. The 25-year-old started his career at New Albany High School, winning a basketball championship with the Bulldogs.

He later transferred to Trinity, where he helped the team win the 2016 Class 6A football state title.

Upon entering college at Purdue University and joining their football program, ESPN reports that the talent was named a first-team All-American during his freshman year. Additionally, he was awarded college football’s most versatile player award, aka the Paul Hornung award, that same year.

In just three seasons, Rondale earned 1,915 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns while also rushing for 248 yards and three touchdowns.

In 2021, Rondale entered the NFL Draft and was selected in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals. After three seasons with the team, he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024.

Unfortunately, an injury impacted his time with the Falcons, where he was later released.

He later signed with the Vikings in 2025 during free agency. Unfortunately, his injury kept him from making the team roster.

At this time, no news about Rondale’s autopsy has been revealed. Law enforcement shared that the autopsy was scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 22. However, since Rondale’s family has been relatively silent while grieving, it’s safe to say those results likely won’t be released.

We’d like to send our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Rondale Moore.