Breiden Fehoko, a recently retired NFL tackle, accused league teams of failing to adequately support the mental health of their players after wide receiver Rondale Moore died at 25. Moore, who played for the Minnesota Vikings, was discovered in his garage with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to police chief Todd Bailey. The tragic news sparked widespread reactions across the NFL community, prompting Fehoko to speak out against what he sees as superficial concern from teams regarding their players’ wellbeing.
Breiden Fehoko Calls Out NFL Teams on Genuine Commitment to Mental Health
Fehoko, who concluded his NFL career in November 2025, expressed frustration on social media about the league’s handling of mental health issues. On X, he stated that despite frequent posts about mental health awareness, teams prioritize only players’ on-field performance rather than their overall welfare. He wrote,
“Imma keep it a stack.. I don’t care, I’m retired I’ll say what I want.”
Fehoko added,
“These NFL teams come out here and post these mental health awareness posts talking about they care about players don’t be afraid to reach out etc. All they care about is what you bring to the table when it’s game day.”
He further emphasized that real care would be shown if all staff members, from franchise quarterbacks to janitors, were treated equally by owners, general managers, and head coaches. Until then, he urged skepticism toward teams’ claims of concern, noting,
“Until then don’t tell me they care cause they posted some hotline number when shit like this happens. I’m here for any of my brothers that just wanna talk and shoot the shit. I love y’all. I care about y’all. I’m here for y’all.”
Overview of Breiden Fehoko’s NFL Journey and Retirement
Fehoko, who earned a national championship at LSU in 2020, announced his retirement at age 29 after several challenging seasons. Originally from Hawaii, he spent three years with the Los Angeles Chargers before signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2023. However, he never played in an official NFL game for the Steelers, spending time on and off their practice squad before his final release in August 2025.
Reflecting on his career, Fehoko shared on Instagram,
“Sometimes in life you just get a sense of fulfillment & for me it’s now. 29 years old and I couldn’t be happier with the journey of where this game has taken me.”
He acknowledged the support from those around him, writing,
“To my family you guys never let me quit and more importantly never let me stop believing in myself. I’m thankful for every coach, teammate, trainer, opponent, agent, etc. because you guys made me a better version of myself every time I stepped on that football field.”
Wrapping up his retirement announcement, Fehoko expressed,
“I’m not a fan of long novels but I’m glad to say I’m retiring from this great sport of football.”
He also reflected on looking forward to new chapters with his family while admitting he would miss team activities but not conditioning.
Emotional Responses from NFL Players Following Moore’s Passing
The NFL community reacted with shock and sorrow at the news of Rondale Moore’s death. JJ Watt, a Hall of Famer who concluded his career with the Arizona Cardinals, posted on X,
“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.”
Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard expressed disbelief, writing,
“Bro what in the world… Cmon Rondale you was gon comeback n prove em wrong… RIP.”
Isaiah Rodgers Sr, a Super Bowl champion, simply posted a prayer emoji, while Ray-Ray McCloud, who played alongside Moore on the Falcons, posted “Mannnn” accompanied by multiple crying emojis.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in the NFL
Rondale Moore’s passing has ignited urgent conversations about player mental health in the NFL. The circumstances surrounding his death emphasize the pressures athletes face behind the scenes and raise questions about whether the league’s mental health support is sufficient. Fehoko’s outspoken criticism reflects a broader concern about how teams address these challenges beyond public relations efforts.
For those struggling, the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US can be reached by calling or texting 988. An online chat is also available at 988lifeline.org, providing vital resources to anyone in need.
