The NFL World was stunned on Saturday night when it was announced that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore had suddenly died.
The early reports are that Moore’s death came as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Upon learning of the tragic news, many throughout the sport and beyond reacted emotionally to the loss of the 25-year-old former Purdue Boilermaker.
“The NFL is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Rondale Moore,” posted the NFL to its official X account. “Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.”
Moore’s head coach, Kevin O’Connell of the Vikings, also released a statement, reading, “I am devastated by the news of Rondale’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.
“He was 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.”
Moore’s career was marked by numerous significant ailments, beginning during his three-year stint with the Arizona Cardinals. Arizona drafted Moore in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, but he missed nine games during the 2022 season and was placed on Injured Reserve that December. He was later traded to the Atlanta Falcons before the start of the 2024 season.
Moore was placed on Injured Reserve later that year before opting for free agency and signing with the Vikings this past March. He then suffered another serious injury and again headed to IR in August. He never played a single game for the Cardinals or Vikings due to his ailments.
Moore finished his NFL career appearing in 39 games, earning 23 starts, totaling 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns.
“The NFL Players Association is devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Rondale Moore,” read a statement released by the NFLPA. “This immense loss is felt deeply across our union, and we value his service as a player rep. Our condolences and prayers are with Rondale’s family, teammates and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Emotional Reaction
A few well-known players also provided their thoughts on Moore’s death:
“Rest in Peace Rondale,” posted Moore’s former Cardinals teammate and current Denver Broncos linebacker Zach Allen to X. “It was an honor to be your teammate. Always check on your people. You just never know.”
“Make sho ya’ll checking on ya’ll strong friends too..” wrote Indianapolis Colts cornerback Sauce Gardner in a post to X.
“I remember playing against Rondale Moore, and I was like, ‘That’s the coldest dude I’ve ever been on the field with,” recalled Las Vegas Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby from his college days in a video posted to X. “He was like Tyreek Hill in college.”
As a result of Moore’s death, the Vikings have stated they “will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need” within the organization.