Rondale Moore: Former Purdue and NFL Receiver Dies at 25

rondale moore, the former Purdue standout and NFL wide receiver, died on Saturday at the age of 25, his former college coach Jeff Brohm confirmed. Police in Moore’s hometown of New Albany, Indiana, told WHAS that the player had taken his own life.

Coach Jeff Brohm recalled a fierce competitor

Brohm, who coached Moore at Purdue, described him as "a complete joy to coach" and praised Moore’s work ethic, competitiveness and team-first approach. Brohm said Moore would not back down from any challenge, called him a great teammate who would "come through in any situation, " and added, "we all loved Rondale, 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, we love him very much. "

Rondale Moore remembered by teammates and family

Former teammates and peers paid tribute on social media. Three-time defensive player of the year JJ Watt wrote, "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. "

Moore’s cousin Gino Rowen noted Moore’s difficult start in life, saying, "They say premature babies are the strongest, because they come out having to fight. " The context says Moore was born five weeks premature and excelled in basketball, track and football in high school before earning a football scholarship to Purdue.

College success, size and a standout debut

Moore chose Purdue over Texas and in his first year won the Paul Hornung Award, given to college football’s most versatile player. He was listed at 5ft 7in and 181 lbs, and while at Purdue he acknowledged the challenge his height posed, saying, "I knew the odds weren’t in my favor, as far as height goes. "

Drafted in the second round by the Arizona Cardinals in 2021, Moore caught a 77-yard touchdown pass from Kyler Murray in his second career start. Injuries limited him over the next two seasons with the Cardinals.

Trades, injuries and the final team

Moore was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 but was again sidelined through injury. He signed a contract with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025 and missed the entire season after suffering a second serious knee injury in two years.

Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said he was "devastated by the news of Rondale’s death" and called Moore humble, soft-spoken and respectful. O’Connell added that Moore was disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite repeated injuries, and said, "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. "

Police statement and support resources

Police in New Albany, Indiana, told WHAS that Moore had taken his own life; the context does not provide further details about circumstances or timing beyond that statement.

For anyone struggling, the following resources were listed in the provided context: in the U. S., call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline. org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In the U. K. and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123.

The immediate next steps for memorials or team statements were unclear in the provided context. Teams and family members have offered public messages of grief and support; work will continue to address next steps.