Rondale Moore

Rondale Moore, a talented and dynamic NFL wide receiver whose professional journey took him from Purdue University to the Arizona Cardinals and Minnesota Vikings, died February 21, 2026, in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana. He died by suicide at the age of 25.

Born June 9, 2000, in New Albany, Moore emerged as a multi-sport standout athlete. He first attended New Albany High School before transferring to Trinity High School in Louisville, Kentucky, where he earned Kentucky Gatorade Player of the Year honors and helped his team to a state championship.

Moore chose to play college football at Purdue University, where he became one of the most electrifying players in the country. As a true freshman in 2018, he led the Big Ten with more than 1,200 receiving yards, scored 14 total touchdowns, and won the Paul Hornung Award as college football's most versatile player. His performance earned him consensus All-America honors and national recognition.

Selected 49th overall in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, Moore quickly demonstrated his playmaking ability. He finished his three seasons in Arizona with 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing rare speed, agility, and special teams contributions.

In 2024, Moore's career was derailed by a season-ending knee injury suffered during training camp with the Atlanta Falcons. A subsequent signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025 was followed by another serious knee injury in the first preseason game, ending that season as well.

Teammates, coaches, and opponents alike praised Moore for his work ethic and character. Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell remembered him as "humble, soft-spoken, and respectful," proud of his Indiana roots. O'Connell also noted, "As a player, he was disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career."

Jeff Brohm, Moore's head coach at Purdue, said Moore was "a complete joy to coach," highlighting his competitiveness and the loyalty he inspired among teammates.

By Legacy News Staff

(Image: Todd Rosenberg via AP)