The Minnesota Vikings have announced the death of former player Ronyell Whitaker at the age of 46.
It comes a day after the team’s wide receiver Rondale Moore passed away at the age of 25.
Whitaker joined the Vikings in 2006 and appeared in 27 games over the course of two seasons. He recorded 31 tackles, a pass defended and a fumble recovery for Minnesota.
The defensive back played college football at Virginia Tech and signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003 as an undrafted free agent.
After spending part of the 2008 offseason with the Lions, Whitaker concluded his career in the CFL.
His family said in a statement: ‘The Whitaker family is heartbroken to share the passing of our beloved son, brother and friend, Ronyell Deshawn Whitaker, who departed this life on February 22, 2026.
The Minnesota Vikings have announced the death of former player Ronyell Whitaker
It comes a day after the team’s wide receiver Rondale Moore passed away at the age of 25
‘Ronyell lived a life marked by passion, perseverance and purpose. While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments, those closest to him knew him best for his generous heart, unwavering loyalty and deep love for his family.
‘He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him.
‘During this incredibly difficult time, we ask for prayers, love and privacy as our family grieves this tremendous loss and celebrates the life of a man who meant so much to so many.’
In their announcement, the Vikings said Whitaker’s death occurred while the franchise ‘was still processing’ the shocking passing of Moore.
Police said he died of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound after he was found dead in the garage of a property in his hometown of New Albany.
Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin also confirmed Moore´s death. He said an autopsy would be conducted on Sunday.
He had season-ending training camp knee injuries in each of the last two years after a standout college career at Purdue and a promising start with the Arizona Cardinals.
After being traded to the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, Moore dislocated his right knee during training camp and never played for them.
Moore signed with the Vikings in 2025 but spent another full season on injured reserve
He signed with the Vikings in 2025, but he blew out his left knee while returning a punt in their first exhibition game and spent another full season on injured reserve.
Moore was so distraught after immediately realizing the seriousness of that injury that he slammed his hand down on a cart so hard the sound was audible throughout the stadium.
‘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,’ coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement distributed by the team.
‘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.’
