The sports world was hit with the saddening news that former Purdue wide receiver Rondale Moore was found dead on Saturday, February 21.
According to The Athletic, Moore, who was just 25 years old, was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the garage of a property in New Albany, Indiana.
That is the extent of the information currently available, with an autopsy scheduled for Sunday.
“Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no additional information will be released at this time,” New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey said.
Moore’s death sent shockwaves through the football community, with former players and coaches offering condolences. One message that stood out came from former Purdue head coach and current Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm.
Louisville’s Jeff Brohm, Purdue Football React to Rondale Moore’s Death
Brohm released a statement shortly after the news became official.
“Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach,” Brohm said. “The ultimate competitor that wouldn’t back down from any challenge. Rondale had a work ethic unmatched by anyone. A great teammate that would come through in any situation. We all love 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.”
Purdue football’s social media account added: “The Purdue Football family is deeply saddened by the news of Rondale Moore’s tragic passing. An All-American with an infectious smile, Rondale was a joy on and off the field. Someone who left this world too soon, Rondale will be remembered as a legendary Boilermaker.”
Moore played under Brohm at Purdue from 2018 to 2020. As a freshman, he was named a First-Team All-American after recording 114 receptions for 1,258 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also added 213 rushing yards and two more scores.
In his first collegiate game, Moore totaled 313 all-purpose yards — the most in program history.
His final two seasons at Purdue were injury-stricken, however, as he played in just seven games combined for 657 yards and two touchdowns.
Unfortunately, injuries continued to impact his NFL career as well.
Rondale Moore’s NFL Career Barely Got Started
Moore was drafted in the second round (No. 49 overall) by the Arizona Cardinals in 2021. He missed the first three games of his rookie season with a hamstring injury but still finished with 54 receptions for 435 yards and one touchdown.
He played two more seasons in Arizona and missed more than half of his second year due to injury. After appearing in 17 games in 2023, that would be the final time he played a regular-season NFL snap.
Moore was traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024 but suffered a season-ending knee injury during training camp. He was released the following offseason and later signed with the Minnesota Vikings. However, another knee injury ended his season during a preseason game before it could begin.
In total, Moore appeared in 39 NFL games, recording 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns.
Jeff Brohm Delivers Heartfelt Message After Death of Former Purdue Star Rondale Moore