NFL Wide Receiver Rondale Moore Dead At 25

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Feb 21, 2026 9:20 PM ET

Just a few months ago Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore was getting ready for his fifth NFL season. But the beloved wide receiver has tragically left us far too soon.

Multiple reporters and outlets confirmed on Saturday that Moore passed away today at the age of 25. Details of his passing are not yet public.

"Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore passed away Saturday at the age of 25, a team source confirmed. The team is still gathering information as details around the situation continue to emerge," The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported on X.

According to The Athletic, an autopsy is scheduled for Sunday and will be done by the Floyd County coroner. His death is currently under investigation.

A promising career cut short

Moore was the 49th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft following an award-winning career at Purdue. He showed promise over his three seasons in Arizona, recording 1,201 yards and three touchdowns in 33 games.

Unfortunately, a string of serious injuries hindered his career. In 2024 he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons but never played a game after sustaining a knee injury in training camp.

The following year, Moore signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings but suffered another season-ending knee injury in the preseason. He did not play in 2025 either.

Aug 9, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore (4) is carted off the field after suffering a lower leg injury during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images© Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Tributes to Moore have been pouring in from former teammates and coaches across the country.

"Can’t even begin to fathom or process this. There’s just no way. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in Peace Rondale," JJ Watt, his teammate from 2021 to 2022 in Arizona, wrote on X.

"Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach,” Brohm said, via WLKY. “The ultimate competitor that would never back down to any challenge. Rondale has a work ethic that was unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. we all loved Rondale and 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 and we love him very much!!!” Moore's former Purdue head coach Jeff Brohm said in a statement.

We'll provide more details as they come in.

Our hearts go out to Moore's family and loved ones.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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