Jonathan Greenard Speaks Out Following Rondale Moore’s Death
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore passed away on Saturday, February 21, a death widely reported as a tragic suicide. And as the team’s players, coaches, staff, owners, and fans mourned Moore’s passing, Vikings defender Jonathan Greenard used his social media microphone to remind the world that players see the same tweets as you.
Greenard urged caution online while Minnesota offered support following the sudden passing of wideout Rondale Moore.
Greenard was sure to emphasize that athletes are humans, too.
A Message Echoes across a Grieving Locker Room
Think before you type and send, Greenard says.
Moore Dead at 25
NFL.com reported Saturday night, “NFL wide receiver Rondale Moore, who played most recently for the Minnesota Vikings, was found dead Saturday night in Indiana, authorities said. He was 25. Police said Moore died of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. Moore was found dead in the garage of a property in his hometown of New Albany, police chief Todd Bailey said. The death remains under investigation.”
“Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin did not share additional details on the circumstances of Moore’s death but said there was no threat to the public and an autopsy would be conducted Sunday. Moore, a receiver and return specialist drafted in the second round out of Purdue University, spent his first three years in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals.”
Back in the summer of 2024, Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died in a Maryland car accident, and the tragedies have not relented for the franchise.
Greenard’s Tweets
For starters, Las Vegas Raiders safety Jamal Adams tweeted, “I’m not jumping to conclusions, but let me say this. Fans and media be quick to label a player ‘injury prone.’ We don’t choose to get hurt… sometimes shit just happens. Y’all don’t see the rehab, the pain, the mental drain it causes. That process can make you lose yourself. This shit is real. No matter how much support you get, you still gotta fight that battle alone. Prayers up for Rondale Moore and his family. He was a baller, no question.”
Greenard retweeted the Adams tweet and commented, “Ppl legit will say the most craziest things tryna be funny on this app. Then turn around wondering why the players mentals are COOKED. Players see ALL the tweets just like yall do bc WE ARE HUMAN JUST LIKE YALL. Algorithms will flood your page w BS that other ppl try to bring you down with.”
“This isn’t all on the media but they play a part. Especially these bot pages. Use that block button and go pray for clarity on your identity fellas. We got too much life to live than to succumb to the negativity in our most vulnerable periods of time.”
It’s a familiar line of defense: fans often treat football players like Roman gladiators; they’re just humans and mortals like you.
Other Players Agree
J.J. Watt, a teammate of Moore in Arizona, tweeted, “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.”
Hollywood Brown: “Bro ain’t no way brotha you just messaged me few hours ago. You wasn’t alone bro.. I told you I know how you feel.”
Kyler Murray posted on Instagram, “Just spoke to you bro. Blessed to have been able to share this life with you. I pray you’re in a better place now Ra.”
The NFL Players Association released this statement: “In moments like this, we are reminded of how much our players carry, on and off the field. To our members: Please know that support is always within reach. Check on your teammates and prioritize your mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to take advantage of the many confidential resources and services available to you through the NFLPA.”
Statement from the Vikings
The Vikings issued this statement: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rondale Moore. While we are working to understand the facts, we have spoken with Rondale’s family to offer our condolences and the full support of the Minnesota Vikings.”
“We have also been in communication with our players, coaches, and staff, and will make counseling and emotional support resources available to anyone in need. Our thoughts are with Rondale’s family and friends during this devastating time.”
The day after Moore’s death, former Vikings defensive back Ronyell Whitaker also passed away at the age of 46. He played for the Vikings in 2006 and 2007.
Moore was the Big Ten Wide Receiver of the Year in 2018.
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