Rondale Moore was a 5-foot-7 dynamo who defied expectations throughout his football career, blazing trails from his record-breaking college debut at Purdue to his four-year NFL journey. On February 21, 2026, the football world lost this explosive wide receiver at just 25 years old. Moore’s story is one of extraordinary talent, relentless perseverance through injury, and a legacy that transcended his physical stature.
Table of Contents
Quick Bio: Rondale Moore at a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Rondale DaSean Moore |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 2000 |
| Date of Death | February 21, 2026 (Age 25) |
| Birthplace | New Albany, Indiana |
| Height | 5’7″ (170 cm) |
| Weight | 180-181 lbs (82 kg) |
| Position | Wide Receiver |
| College | Purdue University |
| NFL Draft | 2021, Round 2, Pick 49 (Arizona Cardinals) |
| NFL Teams | Arizona Cardinals (2021-2023), Atlanta Falcons (2024), Minnesota Vikings (2025) |
| Career Highlights | Paul Hornung Award (2018), First-team All-American (2018), Big Ten Freshman of the Year (2018) |
Who Was Rondale Moore?
Rondale DaSean Moore was an American professional football wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL) from 2021 to 2025. Born five weeks premature in New Albany, Indiana, Moore overcame early health challenges to become one of college football’s most electrifying players before embarking on a promising NFL career that was tragically cut short by consecutive season-ending knee injuries and his untimely death in February 2026.
Moore’s career was defined by explosive speed (4.29-second 40-yard dash), remarkable versatility, and an unmatched work ethic. Despite standing just 5-foot-7, significantly shorter than the typical NFL receiver, he consistently proved that heart, determination, and skill could overcome physical limitations.
What Were Rondale Moore’s Early Years Like?
Growing Up in New Albany
Moore’s childhood in New Albany, Indiana, was shaped by adversity and athletic excellence. Born prematurely, doctors gave him little chance of survival, but his family’s support and his own fighting spirit prevailed. “They say premature babies are the strongest because they come out having to fight,” his cousin Gino Rowen once reflected.
Dual-Sport Excellence
Moore grew up on the same block as future NBA player Romeo Langford, and the two formed a close bond through basketball. They played together until their sophomore year of high school, and Moore was part of New Albany High School’s 2016 4A Indiana State basketball championship team alongside Langford.
Football Breakthrough
Moore transferred to Trinity High School in Louisville, Kentucky, where he emerged as a four-star football recruit. He helped lead Trinity to a 15-0 season and the Kentucky 6A state championship in 2017. Initially committed to the University of Texas, Moore ultimately chose Purdue University in January 2018.
How Did Rondale Moore Dominate College Football?
Record-Breaking Debut
Moore’s college career began with one of the most spectacular debuts in NCAA history. In his very first game against Northwestern on August 30, 2018, the true freshman amassed 313 all-purpose yards, breaking a Purdue school record that had stood since 1972 (previously held by Otis Armstrong with 312 yards).
The performance included:
- 12 receptions
- Multiple explosive plays
- A 76-yard rushing touchdown
- Instant national recognition
Historic Freshman Season
Moore’s 2018 freshman campaign remains one of the greatest in Big Ten history:
| Category | Stats |
| Receptions | 114 (led FBS) |
| Receiving Yards | 1,258 |
| Receiving TDs | 12 |
| Rushing Yards | 213 |
| Rushing TDs | 2 |
| All-Purpose Yards | 2,048 |
| Yards Per Reception | 11.0 |
Ohio State Upset
On October 20, 2018, Moore put on a performance for the ages, leading Purdue to a stunning 49-20 upset over #2-ranked Ohio State. He recorded:
- 170 receiving yards
- 2 touchdowns
- 12 catches
This victory announced Moore’s arrival on the national stage and solidified his status as one of college football’s most dangerous weapons.
Awards and Recognition
Moore’s freshman excellence earned him unprecedented accolades:
- Paul Hornung Award (most versatile player in college football)
- Paul Warfield Trophy (Big Ten Freshman of the Year)
- Consensus First-Team All-American (all-purpose player)
- Big Ten Receiver of the Year
- Big Ten Freshman of the Year
- CBS Sports Freshman of the Year
Injury-Plagued Final Years
After his explosive debut season, Moore played just seven more games for Purdue:
- 2019: Started 4 games before injury ended his season (29 receptions, 387 yards, 2 TDs)
- 2020: Played 3 games during COVID-shortened season (35 receptions, 270 yards)
Despite limited playing time, Moore’s career totals remained impressive: 178 receptions, 1,915 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns across 20 games.
What Made Rondale Moore’s Athletic Profile Special?
Combine and Pro Day Numbers
Moore’s 2021 Pro Day measurements stunned NFL scouts:
| Measurement | Result | Significance |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.29 seconds (unofficial) | Would rank top-10 all-time if official |
| Vertical Jump | 42.5 inches | Exceptional for any position, unprecedented at 5’7″ |
| Height | 5’7″ | Among shortest modern NFL receivers |
| Weight | 180-181 lbs | Compact, powerful build |
| Arm Length | 28.25 inches | Short but functional |
| Hand Size | 8.75 inches | Average for position |
Physical Strengths
- Elite Acceleration: Moore’s initial burst was NFL-caliber, allowing him to separate quickly from defenders
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: Despite his size, Moore could squat three times his bodyweight
- Elusiveness: His low center of gravity made him nearly impossible to tackle in space
- Toughness: Moore played through contact and never backed down from bigger defenders
How Did Rondale Moore’s NFL Career Unfold?
Arizona Cardinals (2021-2023)
Draft Selection
The Cardinals selected Moore with the 49th overall pick (2nd round) in the 2021 NFL Draft, signing him to a four-year, $6.92 million rookie contract with a $2.4 million signing bonus on June 9, 2021.
2021 Season
Moore’s NFL debut season showed flashes of brilliance:
- Games: 14 (7 starts)
- Receptions: 54
- Receiving Yards: 435
- Touchdowns: 1
- Notable Play: 77-yard touchdown catch from Kyler Murray vs. Minnesota Vikings
2022 Season
Injuries limited Moore’s sophomore campaign:
- Games: 8 (8 starts)
- Receptions: 41
- Receiving Yards: 414
- Touchdowns: 1
- Placed on injured reserve December 14, 2022 (groin injury)
2023 Season
Moore’s final year with Arizona was his most productive:
- Games: 17 (8 starts)
- Receptions: 40
- Receiving Yards: 352
- Rushing: 28 attempts, 178 yards, 1 TD
- Total Touchdowns: 2
NFL Career Statistics Summary
| Category | Career Total |
| Games Played | 39 |
| Receptions | 135 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,201 |
| Yards Per Reception | 8.9 |
| Receiving TDs | 3 |
| Rushing Attempts | 52 |
| Rushing Yards | 249 |
| Rushing TDs | 1 |
| Total Scrimmage Yards | 1,450 |
| Fumbles Lost | 1 |
What Happened with Rondale Moore’s Trade to Atlanta?
The Trade Details
On March 14, 2024, the Arizona Cardinals traded Moore to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for quarterback Desmond Ridder. The trade represented:
- A fresh start for Moore after three injury-interrupted seasons
- Atlanta’s attempt to bolster their receiving corps
- A swap of disappointed former high draft picks
Devastating Knee Injury
Moore’s Falcons career ended before it truly began. During training camp on August 8, 2024, Moore suffered a dislocated right knee injury that required season-ending surgery. He never played a single regular-season snap for Atlanta.
The injury was particularly cruel given Moore’s previous injury struggles and represented the second consecutive year he’d be unable to contribute.
Did the Vikings Cut Rondale Moore?
No, the Minnesota Vikings did not cut Rondale Moore. On March 19, 2025, the Vikings signed Moore to a one-year, $2 million contract with $250,000 guaranteed, offering him another opportunity to revive his career.
The contract details included:
- Base salary: $565,000
- Signing bonus: $250,000
- Roster bonuses: $600,000
- Workout bonus: $50,000
- Incentives: Reception-based (41 catches: $50K; 51 catches: $100K) and punt return bonuses
Moore participated in Minnesota’s 2025 offseason program and training camp, demonstrating his commitment to returning from injury.
What Happened to Rondale Moore’s Knee?
Moore’s professional career was devastated by two catastrophic knee injuries in consecutive years:
2024 Falcons Injury (Right Knee)
- Date: August 2024 (training camp)
- Injury: Dislocated right knee
- Result: Season-ending, placed on injured reserve August 8, 2024
- Impact: Zero games played for Atlanta
2025 Vikings Injury (Left Knee)
- Date: August 9, 2025 (preseason opener)
- Injury: Season-ending left knee injury
- Context: Occurred while returning a punt vs. Houston Texans
- Tackle: Texans linebacker Jamal Hill tackled Moore along the sideline
- Result: Moore carted off field, placed on injured reserve August 12, 2025
- Impact: Second consecutive season lost to knee injury
These back-to-back devastating injuries effectively ended Moore’s playing career, as he never returned to action after the August 2025 injury.
How Long Was Rondale Moore Out?
Moore was sidelined for:
- Entire 2024 season: Following right knee dislocation with Atlanta Falcons
- Entire 2025 season: Following left knee injury on first preseason play with Minnesota Vikings
- Total: Approximately 24+ consecutive months without playing a competitive snap
The consecutive season-ending injuries represented a tragic turn for a player who had already battled various injuries throughout his college and early NFL career.
What Was Rondale Moore’s 40 Time?
Rondale Moore ran an unofficial 4.29-second 40-yard dash at Purdue’s Pro Day in March 2021. This blazing time:
- Would rank among the top 10 fastest all-time at the NFL Combine if officially recorded
- Exceeded expectations given his 5’7″ frame
- Compared favorably to 2020’s fastest combine time: Henry Ruggs III (4.27 seconds)
- Ranked alongside legendary speedsters like John Ross (4.22), Chris Johnson (4.24), and Champ Bailey (4.28)
In high school, Moore reportedly ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash, demonstrating his elite speed from an early age.
What Did Rondale Moore Pass Away From?
Rondale Moore was found dead on February 21, 2026, in a garage in his hometown of New Albany, Indiana. According to New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey, authorities suspect the cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound, though the investigation was ongoing at the time of initial reports.
Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin confirmed Moore’s death but did not initially share additional details, stating there was no threat to the public and an autopsy would be conducted.
Circumstances Surrounding His Death
Moore had been dealing with:
- Two consecutive season-ending knee injuries
- The frustration of an unfulfilled NFL career
- The challenge of rehabilitation and uncertainty about his football future
- The mental health struggles that can accompany career-threatening injuries
The Vikings, NFL, and football community expressed deep sadness and offered mental health resources following the tragedy.
What Did the Football Community Say About Rondale Moore?
Jeff Brohm (Former Purdue Coach, Now Louisville Head Coach)
“Rondale Moore was a complete joy to coach. 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 loved Rondale, we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with.”
Kevin O’Connell (Minnesota Vikings Head Coach)
“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.”
JJ Watt (Former Cardinals Teammate)
“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.”
NFL Statement
“The NFL is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Rondale Moore. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time.”
What Was Rondale Moore’s Salary and Contract History?
Arizona Cardinals (2021-2024)
- Contract: 4 years, $6,924,241
- Signing bonus: $2,395,812
- Guaranteed money: $3,370,550
- Average annual value: $1,731,060
Year-by-Year Breakdown:
| Year | Team | Base Salary | Signing Bonus | Total Cash |
| 2021 | Cardinals | $660,000 | $2,395,812 | $3,055,812 |
| 2022 | Cardinals | $974,738 | – | $974,738 |
| 2023 | Cardinals | $1,289,476 | – | $1,607,078 |
| 2024 | Falcons | $1,604,215 | – | $1,604,215 |
Minnesota Vikings (2025)
- Contract: 1 year, $2,000,000
- Signing bonus: $250,000
- Guaranteed money: $250,000
- Average annual value: $2,000,000
Career Earnings Total
Through the 2025 season, Moore earned approximately $8.7-11.7 million across his NFL career, depending on which bonuses and incentives were achieved before his passing.
What Was Rondale Moore’s Net Worth in 2026?
While exact net worth figures for NFL players are rarely publicly disclosed, estimates suggest Rondale Moore’s net worth at the time of his death in February 2026 was approximately $3-5 million.
Income Sources and Financial Breakdown
NFL Career Earnings (2021-2025):
- Cardinals rookie contract: ~$6.9 million (4 years)
- Vikings contract: ~$2 million (1 year)
- Total career earnings: ~$8.7-11.7 million
Estimated Expenses:
- Agent fees (typically 3%): ~$260,000-350,000
- Federal/state taxes (estimated 40-45%): ~$3.5-5.3 million
- Living expenses, training costs: Variable
- Medical expenses/rehabilitation: Substantial given injuries
Potential Additional Income:
- Endorsement deals (limited due to injuries)
- Appearance fees
- Social media partnerships
Asset Considerations:
- Real estate investments
- Vehicles
- Savings and investments
Given his short career (4 active seasons) and limited playing time due to injuries, Moore’s earning potential was significantly curtailed compared to healthy players selected in similar draft positions.
What Were Rondale Moore’s Most Memorable NFL Plays?
77-Yard Touchdown vs. Minnesota Vikings (2021)
Moore’s first NFL touchdown came in spectacular fashion during Week 2 of his rookie season. Quarterback Kyler Murray scrambled to escape pressure, then found Moore in space. The rookie receiver caught the ball near midfield and used his elite speed to outrun the Vikings secondary for a 77-yard score, announcing his arrival in the NFL.
45-Yard Rushing Touchdown vs. Dallas Cowboys (2023)
On September 24, 2023, Moore took a handoff and showcased the elusiveness that made him special. He made multiple Cowboys defenders miss, hitting turbo in the open field to score from 45 yards out, demonstrating he could damage defenses both as a receiver and runner.
48-Yard Touchdown Catch (2023)
Moore’s connection with Kyler Murray produced another long touchdown when he caught a perfectly placed ball and raced down the sideline for 48 yards, reminding everyone why the Cardinals drafted him.
Jersey-Rip 38-Yard Touchdown (2022)
Perhaps Moore’s most memorable play came when a defender literally ripped his jersey trying to tackle him, but Moore’s determination and power allowed him to break free and complete a 38-yard touchdown reception despite the attempted tackle.
What Made Rondale Moore’s Playing Style Unique?
Versatility as a Weapon
Moore was used in multiple roles:
- Slot receiver: Primary position
- Outside receiver: Occasional alignment
- Running back: Jet sweeps and direct snaps
- Return specialist: Punt and kick returns
After-the-Catch Ability
Despite his small stature, Moore excelled after the catch:
- Elite change-of-direction skills
- Low center of gravity made him difficult to tackle
- Vision to find running lanes
- Willingness to run through contact
Comparison to NFL Peers
Scouts compared Moore to:
- Tyler Lockett (Seattle Seahawks): Similar size, route-running ability
- Tyreek Hill: Elite speed and versatility
- Steve Smith Sr.: Undersized but fierce competitor
How Did Injuries Impact Rondale Moore’s Career?
Injury Timeline
| Year | Injury | Games Missed |
| 2019 | Hamstring (Purdue) | Season-ending after 4 games |
| 2020 | Various (Purdue) | Limited to 3 games |
| 2022 | Groin (Cardinals) | Final 4 games |
| 2024 | Right knee dislocation (Falcons) | Entire season |
| 2025 | Left knee (Vikings) | Entire season |
Career Impact
The consecutive knee injuries in 2024 and 2025 proved devastating:
- Prevented Moore from establishing consistency
- Limited his ability to showcase his talents
- Created uncertainty about his NFL future
- Contributed to mental health struggles
Despite his elite athletic profile, Moore’s career totaled just 39 games played over five seasons, averaging fewer than 8 games per year.
What Legacy Did Rondale Moore Leave Behind?
Breaking Size Barriers
At 5-foot-7, Moore proved that height limitations could be overcome with:
- Elite athleticism
- Relentless work ethic
- Football intelligence
- Competitive spirit
College Football Impact
Moore’s freshman season at Purdue remains one of the greatest in Big Ten history:
- Changed perceptions about smaller receivers
- Inspired undersized athletes to pursue their dreams
- Created memorable moments that energized Purdue football
Mental Health Awareness
Moore’s tragic death highlights critical issues:
- Mental health challenges facing athletes
- The psychological impact of career-threatening injuries
- The need for robust support systems for professional athletes
- Importance of destigmatizing mental health conversations in sports
Community Influence
From New Albany, Indiana, Moore represented:
- Hometown pride and inspiration
- Overcoming adversity (premature birth)
- The power of determination
- Excellence in multiple sports
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Rondale Moore the shortest player in the NFL?
No, but at 5’7″, Moore was among the shortest active NFL players. The shortest player in NFL history was Jack Shapiro at 5’1″, while recent players like Trindon Holliday (5’5″) and Tarik Cohen (5’6″) were shorter than Moore.
How did Rondale Moore compare to other 2021 NFL Draft receivers?
The 2021 draft class included elite receivers like Ja’Marr Chase (5th overall), Jaylen Waddle (6th), DeVonta Smith (10th), and Rashod Bateman (27th). Moore was selected 49th overall and showed comparable athleticism but struggled with injuries that limited his production compared to healthier peers.
What was Rondale Moore’s relationship with Romeo Langford?
Moore and NBA player Romeo Langford grew up five houses apart in New Albany, Indiana. They played basketball together through high school and won a state championship together in 2016 at New Albany High School before both pursuing professional sports careers.
Did Rondale Moore ever play in the playoffs?
Yes, Moore appeared in one playoff game during the 2021 NFL Wild Card round when the Cardinals faced the Los Angeles Rams. He recorded 5 receptions for 32 yards in Arizona’s 34-11 loss.
What college records did Rondale Moore set at Purdue?
Moore set or tied several Purdue records including: all-purpose yards in a single game (313 vs. Northwestern, 2018), and became the first Purdue freshman to win the Paul Hornung Award and achieve consensus All-American status.
How many Pro Bowl selections did Rondale Moore receive?
Moore never received a Pro Bowl selection during his NFL career, primarily due to injuries limiting his playing time and statistical production over his four seasons.
What was Rondale Moore’s draft projection before the 2021 NFL Draft?
Most draft analysts projected Moore as a late first-round to early second-round pick. His exceptional Pro Day performance (4.29 40-yard dash, 42.5-inch vertical) elevated his stock, though concerns about his injury history and size caused some teams to pass on him in the first round.
Did Rondale Moore have any siblings?
Public records indicate Moore had family in the New Albany area, but specific information about siblings has not been widely reported in available sources.
What was Rondale Moore’s best statistical NFL season?
Moore’s best season was 2022 when he started all 8 games he played, recording 41 receptions for 414 yards and 1 touchdown, averaging 10.1 yards per reception and 51.8 yards per game before being placed on injured reserve.
How is Rondale Moore being remembered by the football community?
The football community remembers Moore as an undersized warrior who never backed down from challenges, a dedicated teammate with an infectious smile, and a cautionary reminder of the mental health challenges facing athletes. Memorial efforts have focused on mental health awareness and supporting young athletes facing adversity.
Conclusion: Remembering Rondale Moore’s Extraordinary Journey
Rondale Moore’s life and career represent both the pinnacle of athletic achievement and the heartbreaking reality of unfulfilled potential. From his premature birth and early health struggles to becoming college football’s most versatile freshman, Moore embodied resilience and determination.
His 313-yard all-purpose debut at Purdue, his Paul Hornung Award, and his consensus All-American honors showcased a talent that transcended physical limitations. The 4.29-second 40-yard dash and 42.5-inch vertical jump at 5-foot-7 proved he belonged among football’s elite athletes.
Yet Moore’s story is also one of cruel misfortune, consecutive season-ending knee injuries robbed him of the opportunity to fully display his gifts at the NFL level. His tragic death at age 25 serves as a sobering reminder that the pressures and challenges facing professional athletes extend far beyond the field.
Moore’s legacy lives on in the memories of spectacular plays, the inspiration he provided to undersized athletes everywhere, and the ongoing conversation about mental health in sports. His journey from premature baby to All-American to NFL player demonstrates that greatness isn’t measured solely in height or longevity, but in the impact one makes and the barriers one breaks.
Rest in peace, Rondale DaSean Moore (June 9, 2000 – February 21, 2026).
