Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore has died at the age of just 25, the apparent victim of a self-inflicted gunshot wound sustained over the weekend.

Moore’s body was discovered in the garage of his home in New Albany, Indiana on Saturday, and there would appear to be no suspicion of foul play, according to statements from New Albany Police chief Todd Bailey and law enforcement officials.

Chief Bailey said officers were conducting a death investigation, noting that the circumstances suggested a ‘suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound’. The Floyd County coroner, meanwhile, confirmed Moore’s death and said that an autopsy would take place to determine the official cause as part of an ongoing investigation.

The news has sent shockwaves through the football community, where Moore was widely respected for his talent, work ethic and infectious personality. Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell released a statement saying, “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”. O’Connell added that Moore was “a humble, soft-spoken and respectful young man who was proud of his Indiana roots,” and that 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,” O’Connell concluded, “My prayers are with Rondale’s family, friends, team-mates and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news.”

Former Purdue coach Jeff Brohm, who coached Moore in college, wrote on social media that the player had been ‘a complete joy to coach’.

“The ultimate competitor that would never back down from any challenge, Rondale has a work ethic that was unmatched by anyone,” Brohm continued. “A great team-mate 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 career began with national prominence at Purdue, where he was named a consensus All-American and won the Paul Hornung Award. He was drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, later spent time with the Atlanta Falcons and most recently signed with the Vikings in 2025, though injuries limited his on-field opportunities.

Moore’s former team-mates and friends, including Kansas City Chiefs receiver Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown, expressed disbelief, with Brown noting on social media, “Bro ain’t no way brotha you just messaged me few hours ago.”

In the wake of Marshawn Kneeland’s passing early in the recent NFL season, the tragedy has prompted an outpouring of condolences across the NFL and a reawakened emphasis on the importance of mental health support.