Rondale Moore, the dynamic NFL wide receiver known for his speed and playmaking, has died at age 25. Authorities in New Albany, Indiana, confirmed he suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His body was discovered in a garage and he was pronounced dead at Baptist Health Floyd hospital.
Fans in Louisville and New Albany feel the loss deeply. Moore starred at Trinity High School in Louisville, leading the team to a state football title. Earlier, at New Albany High School, he helped secure a basketball championship.
His journey took him to Purdue University, where he shone as an All-American. The Boilermakers’ football program remembered him as a “legendary Boilermaker” with an infectious smile and joy on and off the field.
Drafted in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals in 2021, Moore brought excitement to fans in the desert. He teamed up with Marquise “Hollywood” Brown for two seasons in Arizona before trades reshaped his path.
Moore later signed with the Atlanta Falcons. A preseason knee injury sidelined him for the entire 2024 season. He bounced back with a one-year deal to join the Minnesota Vikings ahead of 2025, only to suffer another devastating knee injury in preseason, keeping him out of games.
Brown, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, shared a heartbreaking tribute. The two had texted hours before Moore’s death. “Bro, there’s no way, brotha; you just messaged me a few hours ago,” Brown posted on X, alongside a teary emoji.
Bro ain’t no way brotha you just messaged me few hours ago 😢
— Hollywood Brown (@Primetime_jet) February 22, 2026
In a reposted message following Moore’s second injury, Brown offered support. He wrote, “I’m praying for you, brother.” He urged Moore to trust in a higher plan, adding, “I’m here if you ever need to talk, bro. Knowing you, you are built for this; don’t give up.”
Louisville coach Jeff Brohm, who guided Moore at Trinity, praised his unmatched work ethic. “Rondale was a complete joy to coach. “Rondale was the ultimate competitor who wouldn’t back down from any challenge,” Brohm said. He highlighted Moore’s smile and drive to please everyone around him.
The Vikings organization and fans in the Twin Cities are reeling. Moore’s brief time with the Purple left a mark, even without game appearances. Across NFL cities from Phoenix to Atlanta to Minneapolis, the football world mourns a talent gone too soon.
