NFL star Rondale Moore found dead at 25 as cause of death revealed
The Minnesota Vikings wide receiver was found by police in his home town.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore has been found dead at the age of 25.
The three-season NFL veteran was found by police in the garage of a property on Saturday in New Albany, Indiana.
Moore had joined the Minnesota Vikings during the offseason but spent the entire year sidelined with a knee injury sustained during preseason.
Following his passing, an official investigation has been launched, with an autopsy scheduled to be conducted on Sunday.
However, New Albany police chief Todd Bailey has now confirmed that the 25-year-old's cause of death is a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore,” the Vikings said in a statement.
It continued: "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.”
Moore was selected as a second-round pick for the Arizona Cardinals at the 2021 NFL Draft and spent three years with the team before being traded to the Atlanta Falcons in March 2024.
Following the move, things didn't go to plan as he suffered a year-ending knee injury during training that ruled him out of the entire 2024 campaign.
In March 2025, the wide receiver signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings but was again held back after suffering a knee injury that ruled him out of the second season in a row.
"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," said Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell O'Connell in a statement.
"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."
Following an impressive college career at Purdue, where he racked up 114 catches for 1,258 yards and 12 touchdowns, Moore was one of the most highly-regarded prospects ahead of the 2021 NFL Draft.
Former Cardinals teammate J.J. Watt also paid tribute to Moore on social media.
"Can't even begin to fathom or process this," he wrote. "There's just no way. Way too soon. Way too special. So much left to give. Rest in peace Rondale."
Moore played 39 gamed during his NFL career.
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, please don’t suffer alone. Call Samaritans for free on their anonymous 24-hour phone line on 116 123, or visit their website for further information.
Featured Image Credit: Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesTopics: NFL, American Football
Ben McCrum