Before the Monday night matchup against the Bears, the Minnesota Vikings honored the legendary Randy Moss, who recently announced having undergone surgery for bile duct cancer. Former Vikings wide receivers Cris Carter and Jake Reed, both of whom played alongside Moss during his time with the team, brought his jersey to the midfield as they served as honorary captains.
In an emotional twist during the game, current Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold connected with wide receiver Justin Jefferson for a touchdown in the first quarter. Following the score, Jefferson took a moment to send a heartfelt message to Moss saying, “I love you, Randy. I wanted to give a tribute to him on one of my touchdowns.” Jefferson expressed gratitude for the inspiration Moss provided during his youth and stated that he had reached out to him, wishing him well in his battle against cancer.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who played with Moss in New England, emphasized the profound impact Moss has had on the organization. He highlighted the importance of recognizing Moss’s contributions, particularly during a game that celebrated the strong legacy of Viking receivers. The team not only secured a victory that night but also reinforced the bond shared by its players and the iconic impact Moss has had on them.
This gesture not only showcases the Vikings’ respect for their past players but also serves as a heartwarming reminder of the unity within the sport, especially during challenging moments. It reflects hope, resilience, and the ability of sports to connect people across generations.