Former Minnesota Vikings defensive back Ronyell Whitaker died on Sunday, February 22, just one day after the team announced the death of wide receiver Rondale Moore.
“The Whitaker family is heartbroken to share the passing of our beloved son, brother and friend, Ronyell Deshawn Whitaker, who departed this life on Feb. 22, 2026,” the Whitaker family said in a statement released by the Vikings organization.
Whitaker was 46 years old. No cause of death was revealed.
“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,” the statement said. “He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him.”
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The family added, “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.”
Whitaker played three seasons in the NFL, most prolifically with the Vikings. The defensive back appeared in 27 games during two seasons from 2006 to 2007. He also appeared in four games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003 and was signed by the Detroit Lions after his time in Minnesota, though he never saw game action for them.
After a stint with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League, Whitaker retired from professional football in 2010.
Post-football, Whitaker was the CEO and owner of the privately-owned Whitaker Group, LLC, which specialized in relocation transactions and short sales.
The Whitaker family said funeral arrangements and memorial details would be announced in the coming days.
The news of Whitaker’s passing came on the heels of the death of wide receiver Moore, who died by suspected suicide on Saturday, February 21. He was 25.
“I am devastated by the news of Rondale’s death,” Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “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.”
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Moore joined the Vikings during the 2025 offseason. He suffered a season-ending left knee injury while returning a punt in the team’s preseason opener on August 9, 2025.
The wide receiver had previously missed the 2024 season after suffering a dislocated right knee during his time with the Atlanta Falcons.
“As a player, he was disciplined, dedicated and resilient despite facing adversity multiple times as injuries sidelined him throughout his career,” O’Connell, 40, continued. “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.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
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