Vikings, HC Kevin O'Connell 'Heartbroken' by WR Rondale Moore's Death

Moore was on the Vikings roster in 2025 but was placed on injured reserve before the season.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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The Minnesota Vikings and head coach Kevin O'Connell are expressing their sadness and shock after former wide receiver Rondale Moore was found dead on Saturday. O'Connell called Moore a "humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man" who was "disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career." The Vikings also offered condolences to Moore's family and said counseling resources are available for players and staff.

Why it matters

Rondale Moore's death at a young age is a tragic loss for the Vikings organization and the NFL community. As a promising young player who overcame injuries, his passing raises questions about player safety and mental health support for professional athletes.

The details

Moore was on the Minnesota Vikings roster for the 2025 season but was placed on injured reserve before the season. He also previously played for the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons. The Vikings and head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed their devastation at the news and said they are working to understand the facts surrounding Moore's death.

  • Rondale Moore was found dead on Saturday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Kevin O'Connell

The head coach of the Minnesota Vikings.

Rondale Moore

A former wide receiver who was on the Minnesota Vikings roster in 2025 but was placed on injured reserve before the season. He also previously played for the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons.

Tim Walz

The Governor of Minnesota who posted a message of grief for Rondale Moore.

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What they’re 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. He was a humble, soft-spoken, and respectful young man who was proud of his Indiana roots. As a player, 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. My prayers are with Rondale's family, friends, teammates and coaches as we all deal with this tragic news.”

— Kevin O'Connell, Head Coach, Minnesota Vikings (kare11.com)

“Praying for Rondale's family and the entire Vikings community.”

— Tim Walz (X)

What’s next

The Vikings and the NFL are likely to investigate the circumstances surrounding Rondale Moore's death and provide support to his family and the team.

The takeaway

This tragic loss highlights the need for greater mental health resources and support for professional athletes, who face immense physical and emotional challenges in their careers.