A former Vikings defender leaves behind lasting memories.
Former Minnesota Vikings defensive back Ronyell Whitaker has died at the age of 46. His family shared the news on Sunday in a statement released through the team. They did not say what caused his death.
Whitaker played two seasons with Minnesota and formed close relationships in the football community. His family has asked for privacy as they mourn. He would have turned 47 next month.
The Vikings organization and fans are grieving his loss. The team is also coping with the recent death of 25-year-old Rondale Moore.
Whitaker’s family remembered the man behind the helmet.
“Born on March 19, 1979, Ronyell lived a life marked by passion, perseverance and purpose,” the statement read. “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.”
Whitaker Had An Illustrious Career
Whitaker grew up in Norfolk, Virginia. He played high school football at Lake Taylor High School before going to Virginia Tech. As a freshman in 1999, he helped the team reach the national championship game. During his college career, he played 47 games, made seven interceptions, and returned 20 punts. In 2000 alone, he returned 17 punts for 245 yards.
In 2003, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed him as an undrafted free agent. During his first year, he moved between the main roster and the practice squad and played in four regular-season games.
He joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2006 and played 27 games over two seasons. While there, he recorded 31 tackles, recovered one fumble, and defended one pass.
Later, he spent time with the Detroit Lions in 2008, but he did not play in a regular-season game. He also played in NFL Europe and then with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League before retiring.
After retiring from football, Whitaker stayed involved in the sport. He worked as a defensive backs coach at Chanhassen High School from 2014 to 2018. He also ran his own business, Whitaker Group, LLC, which helped people with relocation services and short sales.
“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,” his family said. “He was a protector, a mentor and a source of strength and laughter to all who had the blessing of knowing him.”
His family asked for prayers, love and privacy during this difficult time.
