Ronyell Whitaker Dead: Former Vikings DB Was 46
Ronyell Whitaker passed away Sunday, his family announced. He was 46 years old, and weeks from his birthday.
The news arrived less than 24 hours after the Vikings learned of the death of receiver Rondale Moore — a brutal, disorienting weekend for an organization now mourning two members of its family.
"The Whitaker family is heartbroken," his family said in a statement. "Ronyell lived a life marked by passion, perseverance and purpose."
From Norfolk to the NFL
Whitaker grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, and played college football at Virginia Tech, arriving in Blacksburg in time to help the 1999 Hokies finish as national runners-up. Over 47 college games, he recorded seven interceptions and developed into one of the more reliable defensive backs in the program.
He entered the NFL in 2003 as an undrafted free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning time on both the practice squad and active roster as a rookie. He joined the Vikings in 2006, appearing in 27 games across two seasons and recording 31 tackles, a pass defended and a fumble recovery. He later played for the Detroit Lions and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the CFL before retiring from professional football in 2010.
Life After the NFL
Ronyell Whitaker became a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School, a role he held from 2014 to 2018. He founded Whitaker Group, LLC, a real estate firm focused on relocation transactions and short sales, which he led as CEO and owner from 2011 onward.
In fall 2021, Whitaker joined a group of former Vikings players and active military members for a confidence course in Hastings — 18 obstacles modeled after basic training experiences.
"While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments," his family said Sunday, "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."
Funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days. The Whitaker family has asked for prayers, love and privacy as they grieve.