Vikings WR Rondale Moore Dies at 25 as Police Investigate Death in Indiana
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore has died at the age of 25, according to local authorities in Indiana.
New Albany police chief Todd Bailey said Moore was found deceased in the garage of a property in New Albany with what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing.
Moore’s death was first reported Saturday and quickly confirmed by multiple outlets, sending shockwaves through the NFL community. The wide receiver had recently joined the Vikings during the offseason but spent the year on injured reserve following a preseason injury.
What Authorities Have Confirmed
Police have released limited details as the investigation remains active.
Key information confirmed so far:
- Moore was found at a property in New Albany, Indiana.
- Authorities believe the death involved a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
- The incident occurred in a garage on the property.
- No additional details have been released.
- The investigation is ongoing.
Officials have not said whether additional information will be released in the coming days.
#BREAKING: Minnesota Vikings WR Rondale Moore has died, multiple sources have confirmed. Moore joined Minnesota this offseason and spent the year on injured reserve after a preseason injury. He was 25. pic.twitter.com/EUfBlqlTEk
— Ahmad Hicks (@AhmadHicksTV) February 22, 2026
A Career Marked by Explosiveness and Potential
Moore entered the NFL with significant expectations following a standout college career at Purdue, where he became one of the most dynamic offensive players in the country.
Known for his speed and versatility, Moore built a reputation as a playmaker capable of impacting games as both a receiver and return threat. His ability to create yards after the catch made him a difficult matchup in space.
Though injuries slowed his progress at times, teams continued to view him as a high-upside player. His move to Minnesota this offseason was seen as an opportunity to reset and expand his role within a new offense.
That opportunity was cut short before the season could fully take shape.
NFL and Football Community Reacts
At 25, Moore was still early in his professional career, making the news especially difficult for teammates, fans, and those who followed his rise from college standout to NFL player.
Teams and players across the league often take time to respond publicly in situations like this as they coordinate with family members and the league office.
Moore’s death is the latest reminder of the pressures and challenges faced by professional athletes, both on and off the field.
"Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach," said Jeff Brohm, who led the Purdue football program while Moore was enrolled, in a statement. "The ultimate competitor that wouldn't back down from any challenge. Rondale had a work ethic unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. We all loved Rondale, we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with."
What Happens Next
Authorities in Indiana will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Moore’s death. That process typically includes a full review of the scene and coordination with medical examiners before any final determinations are made.
For now, the focus remains on the facts that have been confirmed and the loss of a player whose career still appeared to be unfolding.