Former Vikings, Virginia Tech player Ronyell Whitaker dead at 46

The Minnesota Vikings are mourning the death of another player on Sunday night, just one day after news broke that receiver Rondale Moore had died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Former Vikings defensive back Ronyell Whitaker died earlier Sunday, the team announced on its website.

Whitaker’s family issued a statement confirming his death. It read, in part:

“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. … 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.”

Ronyell Whitaker, who was a member of Virginia Tech‘s 1999 national runner-up team as a freshman and played 47 career games in Blacksburg, carved out a role in professional football after going undrafted in 2002. He suited up for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2003-04 before heading to Europe to play for a short time. He later returned to the NFL in 2006 with the Vikings, spending two years with the franchise. He then enjoyed one final year with the Detroit Lions in 2008 before heading to Canada for a year.

The family shared more information on what he did after football. The statement provided more details on the life of Roynell Whitaker.

“Roynell went on to pursue his professional dreams in the National Football League, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003. Throughout his career, he also played for the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions, and he later continued his football journey in the Canadian Football League with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers before retiring from professional football in 2010.

“His journey didn’t end there. He was a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School from 2014-18 and was the CEO/Owner of privately-owned Whitaker Group, LLC, specializing in relocation transactions and short sales since 2011.

“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.”

Rondale Moore dead at age 25

Minnesota Vikings receiver Rondale Moore died at 25 on Saturday. A local coroner confirmed his death.

According to a report from Ahmad Hicks of FOX9, New Albany police chief Todd Bailey reported that Moore was found dead in a garage with a “suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.” An investigation is underway.

The Floyd County (Indiana) Coroner confirmed Rondale Moore’s death on Saturday evening. Shortly after, tributes began pouring in.

Louisville coach Jeff Brohm weighed in, as did Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell. Former teammate Hollywood Brown and Vikings teammate Jonathan Greenard also reacted to the news.