Is 2010 the Beginning of the End for Randy Moss With the Patriots?

Randy Moss doesn't envision himself as a Patriot for very long-at least according to an interview he did following a recent charity softball game hosted by Heath Evans in Jupiter, Florida.

Moss says that the Patriots "don't pay", and makes sure to add that he doesn't mean that in a negative manner. He goes on to say that this is just simply their way, they believe in their system and in bringing guys up through it. He says this is just the organizational philosophy, and that while there's no animosity on either end, he believes he'll be looking for a new team when his current contract runs out.

Moss is probably right. In addition to Moss, both Matt Light and Tom Brady's contracts expire after next season (as well as a few other players of less consequence). When it comes down to it, resigning what will be a 34 year old receiver seems like it would be pretty far down the list of priorities-if it's on that list at all.

Another factor that could be weighing in on the Patriots' decision at this time next year is the fact that the Free Agent market after the 2010 season is slated to be loaded down with talent at the WR position. With players like Anquan Boldin, Sidney Rice, and Santonio Holmes whose contracts are also expiring, if one was to spend big money on a WR, it seems logical that it wouldn't be Moss.  

One sign that might be encouraging to Moss is that the Patriots seem to draft players that might fill the shoes of a player whose contract is about to expire (further evidence to support the system theory). Sebastian Vollmer and Ron Brace last year, perhaps in anticipation of Light and Wilfork wanting big money. With no WR in waiting to take his spot, no one with a similar skill set in the wings already on his way through the system, Moss may be the only option that is financially reasonable.

As to how the Patriots' organizational philosophy applies to Tom Brady, Randy Moss said simply this: "if you ask me personally, I think that Tom Brady is going to be a New England Patriot". He went on to add "As for me I don't really know. I know I would like a new contract. I think I've done enough to earn a new contract". Unfortunately in the world of professional sports, it's not typically what you've done, but what those with the checkbooks believe you can do that earns you that contract.