Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts publicly criticized several former teammates of wide receiver Rondale Moore for reportedly failing to attend Moore’s funeral in early March. The 25-year-old Moore passed away in late February under tragic circumstances, prompting Pitts to express frustration over the lack of support from some NFL players.
Pitts shared his disappointment on social media, stating,
“Crazy how only about 6 maybe 7 of your teammates in the NFL showed up for you today smfh,”
as reported by ESPN’s Jenna Laine. He added,
“All that talk about fake emotion and nobody want to show up to lay you to rest. Just at a loss of words.”
Details Surrounding Rondale Moore’s Death and Funeral
Moore was found deceased in a garage in New Albany, Indiana, according to New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey. The death is under investigation, with authorities suspecting a self-inflicted gunshot wound as the cause. The Floyd County Coroner officially confirmed Moore’s passing later that weekend.
Following the announcement, tributes began to pour in for the former NFL wide receiver and Purdue standout. Moore’s college head coach, Jeff Brohm, who is now leading the Louisville football program, issued a heartfelt statement on Twitter. Brohm remembered Moore as “a complete joy to coach,” praising him as
“the ultimate competitor that wouldn’t back down from any challenge”
with a “work ethic unmatched by anyone.”
Brohm continued,
“A great teammate that would come through in any situation. We all loved Rondale, we loved his smile and competitive edge that always wanted to please everyone he came in contact with. We offer all of our thoughts and prayers to Rondale and his family, we love him very much.”
Rondale Moore’s Football Career Highlights
Selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals with the 49th overall pick, Moore showed promise early in his professional career. During his first three seasons in Arizona, he recorded 135 receptions for 1,201 yards and three touchdowns, also contributing 249 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown.
After the 2023 season, Moore was traded to the Atlanta Falcons. Unfortunately, a season-ending injury sustained in training camp prevented him from taking the field that year. The following year, after signing with the Minnesota Vikings, Moore again suffered a season-ending knee injury during the preseason and was placed on injured reserve for a consecutive year.
Kyle Pitts’ Role and Connection to Moore
Kyle Pitts and Rondale Moore were teammates briefly during Moore’s time with the Falcons organization in 2024. Pitts’ public remarks highlight a tension within the NFL community regarding how players show respect and support in times of personal loss, especially given the outward expressions of emotion often shared in social media and interviews.
Implications and Next Steps Following Moore’s Passing
Moore’s untimely death and the ensuing reactions from former teammates like Pitts have sparked conversations about player solidarity and mental health awareness within the NFL. The investigation into Moore’s death remains ongoing, as law enforcement continues to gather information. Meanwhile, the football community mourns the loss of a talented athlete whose career was marked by both potential and misfortune.
As tributes continue to surface and the grieving process unfolds, attention may focus on how teams and players can better support one another off the field, especially in moments of tragedy.
Kyle Pitts posted this about Rondale Moore’s celebration of life… “Crazy how only about 6 maybe 7 of your teammates in the NFL showed up for you today smfh. All that talk about fake emotion and nobody want to show up to lay you to rest. Just at a loss of words.” pic.twitter.com/XBH8BIbP8A
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) March 7, 2026
According to the New Albany police chief, Todd Bailey.
Rondale Moore (age 25) was found deceased in the garage of the property of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound.
An investigation is underway. https://t.co/xydJyfDw1J
— Ahmad Hicks (@AhmadHicksTV) February 22, 2026
