Before the start of Monday night’s game against the Bears, former Vikings wide receivers Cris Carter and Jake Reed paid a heartfelt tribute to their teammate, Randy Moss, who recently underwent surgery for bile duct cancer. As honorary captains for the game, Carter and Reed brought Moss’ jersey to midfield, honoring his significant impact on the team and the sport.
During the first quarter, current Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold connected with wide receiver Justin Jefferson for a touchdown. In a moment of acknowledgment, Jefferson dedicated his score to Moss, expressing his admiration for the legendary player. “Every game is a plan to get into the end zone, but I definitely wanted to give a tribute to him on one of my touchdowns,” Jefferson stated. He shared how Moss had inspired him as a child and emphasized the importance of showing his respect: “I texted him and wished him the best of luck. I was happy to see he came out and said he had beaten cancer. I’ll always have him in my prayers.”
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who played alongside Moss in New England, emphasized Moss’ significance to the organization, highlighting that the team wanted to honor him during the game. The night not only ended on a victorious note for the Vikings but also served as a reminder of Moss’ lasting legacy in Minnesota’s wide receiver history.
This touching tribute showcases the strong bonds within the team and how legends continue to inspire current players. It’s a hopeful reminder that support and love from teammates can have a meaningful impact, especially during challenging times. Moss’ journey and the show of solidarity from both past and present players reflect the enduring spirit of the Vikings organization.