Randy Moss: Why NFL Teams Shouldn't Blackball WR's Return to NFL

Randy Moss was not always viewed as a model teammate during his career, but he doesn’t deserve to be blackballed like Terrell Owens.

That thought crossed my mind when I read that he wanted to return to the NFL. It was a concern, because I believe he may have wanted to return last season, but he didn’t receive the type of interest he expected.

Adam Schefter of ESPN said this of Moss shortly after his retirement:

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Continuing an ongoing storyline, retired WR Randy Moss is open to returning to the NFL if he can find the right situation that has a seasoned quarterback and proper financial compensation. The New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys and Chicago Bears could have interest in him.

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Apparently, the right situation never came along.

Could that be because of the way he left New England? Or the way he finished up in Minnesota and or Tennessee?

In 16 games, Moss had a career low 28 receptions in his last season. Are there concerns about his attitude and commitment? I don’t know, but I do know that Randy Moss can still play the game. If you compare his situation to Owens', it’s clear that Moss is a much safer and smarter choice for general managers.

Moss is 35 years old, while Owens is 38. Both of them have always kept themselves in great condition. That said, the injured knee of Owens adds a physical concern to the automatic chemistry issue  that teams fear Owens will bring. 

Moss doesn’t bring any concerns about his physical ability. He’s 6’5”, and even with a slight tail-off in speed, he still has superior route running skills, and great hands. Most of all, he isn’t banged up.

There is no doubt that a motivated Randy Moss can still be effective.

Motivation is a huge key here. What exactly is Moss’ motivation?

It seems to be pride and not wanting to have his career end on such a sour note. Being released in New England and the non-factor stints in Minnesota and Tennessee are beneath him, and he knows it.

Moss doesn’t need money. There are no reports about his financial hardships, and in this day and age, if they existed, please believe the information would be front and center.

Meanwhile, Owens has made it known that he is in financial trouble. He proclaimed he was “in hell” when he was quoted in a piece by Vinnie Iyer of the Sporting News. He needs the NFL, and that conveys a desperation that makes teams question his motives. 

Moss wants to return to write a proper ending to a Hall of Fame career, not to get out of debt. Hopefully, NFL teams allow him the opportunity to do that.