Ronyell Whitaker, a former defensive back for Virginia Tech and in the NFL, died on Sunday, his family said in an announcement communicated by the Minnesota Vikings. He was 46.
Information on the location and a cause of death for Whitaker, who would have turned 47 on March 19, was not provided.
“… Ronyell lived a life marked by passion, perseverance and purpose,” the family said. “A gifted athlete, he proudly played high school football for Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, Virginia, and college football for the Virginia Tech Hokies, where his talent, determination and leadership on the field made a lasting impact.”
He played at Virginia Tech from 1999-2002, totaling seven interceptions in 47 games, including five in 11 games in the 2000 season. He also returned 20 punts for a 13.7-yard average.
He went undrafted in 2003 and signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and later was assigned to their practice squad. He played in four games (one start) and totaled 12 tackles with one tackle for loss and two passes defended.
He played in 16 games (two starts) for Minnesota in 2006 and 11 games as a reserve for Vikings in 2007, totaling 31 tackles, one fumble recovery and one pass defended.
The Detroit Lions signed him in May 2008 and released him the next month. He spent time in the Canadian Football League before retiring from professional football in 2010, his family said.
Whitaker served as defensive backs coach at Chanhassen (Minn.) High School from 2014-18 and was owner and CEO of Whitaker Group, LCC, specializing in relocation transactions and short sales since 2011, per the family’s statement.
“While many knew him for his athletic accomplishments, those closest to him knew him best for his generous heart, unwavering loyalty and deep love for his family,” the family said. “He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him.”
The former Viking’s death came one day after the death of former Minnesota receiver Rondale Moore at age 25.
According to multiple reports by news outlets in Minnesota and Indiana on Saturday, New Albany (Ind.) Chief of Police Todd Bailey said Moore was found inside a garage and that he died from a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. An autopsy was scheduled for Sunday.
Moore, who starred at Purdue University, also played for the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons.
