He missed the entire previous season due to a knee injury sustained during training camp with the Atlanta Falcons. However, judging by the interest he received in free agency, you wouldn’t have guessed it. While the full details of his contract with the Minnesota Vikings haven’t been disclosed, it’s likely a one-year “prove-it” deal, minimizing the team’s risk.
Moore had a standout college career at Purdue, particularly during his freshman season when he recorded 114 catches for 1,258 yards and 14 total touchdowns. He then spent three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, accumulating 1,450 yards from scrimmage despite dealing with injuries due to his smaller frame (5-foot-7, 181 pounds).
In Minnesota, Moore is expected to compete with Jalen Nailor for the WR3 spot but would likely be the fourth option in the passing attack. Still, he should have opportunities to contribute. The Vikings got a glimpse of his playmaking ability back in Week 8 of the 2022 season when he posted seven catches for 92 yards and a touchdown, along with two carries for 12 yards.
Rondale Moore brings unique skill set to Minnesota Vikings offense
As expected given his size, Moore has primarily played in the slot throughout his career. It’s also no surprise that the majority of his targets have been in the short passing game (0-9 yards from the line of scrimmage or behind it), though there have been some statistical variations in his overall target numbers.
As a result, his average depth of target has been low, with nearly 78 percent of his career receiving yards (935 of 1,201) coming after the catch.
Moore has also seen occasional snaps in the backfield, recording 52 career carries and one rushing touchdown. Additionally, as a rookie with the Cardinals in 2021, he contributed on special teams with 21 punt returns and 13 kickoff returns.
In Minnesota, Moore isn’t expected to have a high volume of targets or touches unless injuries significantly impact the roster. However, the Vikings likely have a specific role in mind for his unique skill set—one that no other offensive playmaker on the team quite replicates—otherwise, they wouldn’t have signed him.
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