'This Isn't Going To Be Fair': An Oral History Of The Arrival Of Randy Moss
When the Minnesota Vikings traded for Randy Moss in 2005, they knew they were getting one of the most dynamic wide receivers in NFL history. But even they couldn't have predicted the impact he would have on the team and the league as a whole. In this oral history, we'll hear from Moss himself, as well as from his coaches, teammates, and opponents, about the arrival of one of the greatest players to ever play the game.
"I knew Randy was a great player," Tice said. "But I also knew he had a reputation. I talked to him at length about what we expected from him, and I believe he was sincere when he said he was ready to be a part of a winning team."
Moss arrived in Minnesota with a lot of fanfare. He was introduced to the media at a press conference at the Vikings' headquarters, and he immediately made a good impression. He was humble, respectful, and eager to prove himself. He also had a swagger about him that made it clear he believed he was the best receiver in the league.
"I knew I was going to be great in Minnesota," Moss said. "I had a lot of confidence in myself, and I knew I could help the Vikings win."
Moss's impact on the Vikings was immediate. He helped the team win its first NFC North title in seven years, and he led the NFL in receiving yards. He also set a new NFL record for receiving touchdowns in a single season with 23.
Moss's success also helped to change the way teams played defense. Teams started to double-team him, and they often rolled their safeties over to his side of the field. But it didn't matter. Moss was simply unstoppable.
Moss played for the Vikings for four seasons, and he helped them reach the NFC Championship Game twice. He was traded to the New England Patriots in 2007, and he went on to win a Super Bowl with the team in 2011. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.
The arrival of Randy Moss in Minnesota was a watershed moment for the Vikings franchise. He helped the team return to prominence, and he left a lasting legacy on the NFL. He is one of the most dominant players to ever play the game, and he will always be remembered as one of the best wide receivers in history.