Minnesota Vikings wide receiver and former Purdue standout Rondale Moore’s cause of death has been released.
Moore died by suicide on Saturday, February 21, New Albany police Chief Todd Bailey told Us Weekly on Monday, February 23.
“Due to consideration for Moore’s family we are not releasing specific case information,” Bailey added.
Moore was found dead in his New Albany, Indiana, home on Saturday.
A native of New Albany, Moore was in the process of working his way back onto the field after suffering a season-ending injury during a Vikings preseason game in August 2025.
“I am devastated by the news of Rondale’s death,” Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “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.”
O’Connell, 40, added, “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. My prayers are with Rondale’s family, friends, teammates and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news.”
Moore signed with the Vikings during the 2025 offseason. He was forced to miss the entire 2024 season after suffering a dislocated right knee during his tenure with the Atlanta Falcons.
Prior to his NFL career, Moore was a star with the Purdue Boilermakers. At the end of his freshman season in 2018, he was the recipient of the Paul Hornung Award, presented to the most versatile player in all of college football.
Though his sophomore and junior years were hampered by injuries, his lasting impact in West Lafayette was undeniable.
“Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach,” said Jeff Brohm, Moore’s head coach at Purdue. “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.”
Brohm, 54, continued, “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!!!”
The NFL community remembered Moore after his sudden death, including his former Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray.
“Just spoke to you bro,” Murray, 28, shared via his Instagram Story. “Blessed to have been able to share this life with you. I pray you’re in a better place now Ra…🕊️.”
J.J. Watt, Moore’s former teammate in Arizona, wrote via X, “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.
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