Rondale Moore’s Injury Sidelines Him for a Second Consecutive Season

Moore Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Rondale Moore will miss the entire 2025 season due to a devastating knee injury sustained during the team’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans this past weekend. This marks the second straight year that Moore will be sidelined, as he also spent the entire 2024 season on injured reserve.

Details of the Injury

• Date of Injury: August 9, 2025
• Opponent: Houston Texans
• Circumstances: Moore was injured while returning the first punt of the game, when he was tackled by Houston linebacker Jamal Hill.
• His frustration was evident as he was carted off the field, slamming his hands in disappointment.

The Vikings confirmed on Tuesday that Moore has been placed on the injured reserve list, effectively ending his season before it even began.

Coach Kevin O’Connell’s Response

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his sorrow over the injury, stating:

“It’s one of the most painful things for me as a head coach when I feel that emotion. I make a life out of trying to leave others better than I found them. In that situation, there is nothing I can do, which is the worst feeling as a coach. So you just consult with him and make sure that he knows he’s not going to be alone.”

Vikings’ Season Overview

Moore, 25, was signed by the Vikings earlier this offseason in hopes of bringing depth to their wide receiver corps. His absence leaves the team in a challenging position as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Recent Team Performance

• Last Season Record: 14-3
• Quarterback: Sam Darnold, who led the team in his first year with the Vikings.
• Playoff Exit: The Vikings were eliminated in the wild-card round by the Rams, suffering a 27-9 defeat.

Career Highlights and Challenges

Rondale Moore was selected 49th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. Over three seasons, he played in 39 regular-season games, amassing:

• Yards: 1,201
• Receptions: 135
• Touchdowns: 3

In March 2024, he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons but was plagued by injuries, leading to his placement on injured reserve last summer.

Notable 2025 Season Challenges

As the Vikings gear up for the 2025 season, they face additional hurdles:

• Star wideout Jordan Addison will also miss the first three games due to a suspension for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
• Minnesota will open its regular season against the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football on September 8, 2025.

Future Outlook

With Moore’s injury, the Vikings will rely on rookie sensation J.J. McCarthy at quarterback, who is making his debut after a torn meniscus sidelined him during his rookie season. As the team navigates these challenges, they remain hopeful for a successful season despite the setbacks.

For continued updates on the Vikings and Rondale Moore, visit NFL.com for breaking news and insights.