Births on February 13

Randy Moss, American football player and coach

Randy Moss: A Legendary NFL Wide Receiver and Hall of Famer

Randy Gene Moss, born on February 13, 1977, stands as one of the most electrifying and naturally gifted wide receivers in the history of American football. His illustrious 14-season career in the National Football League (NFL) saw him play for multiple franchises, leaving an indelible mark with the Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, and San Francisco 49ers. Widely celebrated for his unparalleled athleticism, incredible speed, and exceptional ability to secure contested catches, Moss redefined the wide receiver position and etched his name into the annals of NFL records.

Early Life and Collegiate Dominance at Marshall University

Hailing from Rand, West Virginia, Moss was a multi-sport star in high school, excelling in football, basketball, and track. His path to college football was notable for its twists and turns before he ultimately landed at Marshall University. There, he quickly emerged as a dominant force, twice earning consensus All-America honors. During his time with the Thundering Herd, Moss led Marshall to an undefeated 1996 season and an NCAA Division I-AA National Championship, showcasing the explosive playmaking ability that would soon captivate the NFL. His collegiate success made him one of the most anticipated, though at times controversial, prospects leading up to the NFL Draft.

The Minnesota Vikings Era: A Rookie Sensation and Prolific Deep Threat

Despite some pre-draft character concerns, Randy Moss was drafted 21st overall by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He immediately silenced any doubters, making an unprecedented impact as a rookie. Moss set the NFL single-season touchdown reception record for a rookie with an astonishing 17 touchdowns, a remarkable achievement that remains unbroken. His pairing with quarterback Randall Cunningham, and later Daunte Culpepper, created one of the league's most feared offensive attacks. During his initial seven seasons with the Vikings, Moss consistently demonstrated his unique ability to out-jump and outmaneuver defenders, often securing spectacular catches over multiple opponents. This signature skill led to the coining of the term "mossed," which quickly entered football vernacular to describe a wide receiver making an incredible contested catch against overwhelming odds, cementing Moss's cultural impact on the sport. He became synonymous with the number 84 jersey, a number he wore for the majority of his career.

A Dynamic Career Arc: From Raiders to Patriots and Later Stints

• Oakland Raiders (2005-2006): Following his dominant run with the Vikings, Moss was traded to the Oakland Raiders in 2005. While his statistical output during this period was not as prolific as his early career, he continued to display flashes of his extraordinary talent, reminding fans of his game-changing capabilities.
• New England Patriots (2007-2010): Moss experienced a remarkable career resurgence after being traded to the New England Patriots in 2007. Joining forces with quarterback Tom Brady and head coach Bill Belichick, he played a pivotal role in one of the most historic NFL seasons. In 2007, Moss set the NFL single-season touchdown reception record with an astonishing 23 touchdowns, a record that stands to this day. His contributions were instrumental in the Patriots achieving an undefeated 16-0 regular season, though they ultimately fell in Super Bowl XLII to the New York Giants in a closely contested game.
• Later Career Transitions (2010-2012): In 2010, Moss briefly returned to the Minnesota Vikings via a trade from the Patriots but was waived less than a month later and subsequently claimed by the Tennessee Titans. After sitting out the entire 2011 season, Moss signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers in 2012. He made his second Super Bowl appearance with the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII, a hard-fought loss against the Baltimore Ravens, before officially retiring after the season.

Unforgettable Records and Enduring Legacy

Randy Moss's statistical achievements underscore his unparalleled dominance:

• NFL Single-Season Touchdown Receptions Record: 23 touchdowns in 2007 with the New England Patriots – an all-time NFL record.
• NFL Rookie Single-Season Touchdown Receptions Record: 17 touchdowns in 1998 with the Minnesota Vikings – an all-time NFL record.
• Second on the NFL All-Time Regular Season Touchdown Receptions List: With 156 career touchdown receptions, Moss ranks second only to the legendary Jerry Rice (229 touchdowns).

His blend of imposing size (6'4", 210 lbs), incredible speed (reportedly capable of a sub-4.3 second 40-yard dash), and exceptional leaping ability revolutionized the wide receiver position. Moss was a constant deep threat who commanded double teams, fundamentally altering defensive strategies across the league.

Post-Playing Career and Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction

After concluding his playing career, Randy Moss transitioned into a successful role as a studio analyst for ESPN. He provides insightful commentary and brings his unique perspective to popular programs such as "Sunday NFL Countdown" and "Monday Night Countdown," where his deep knowledge of the game and charismatic personality shine.Recognizing his monumental impact on the sport, Randy Moss was deservedly inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, his first year of eligibility. This prestigious honor solidified his status as one of football's all-time greats, celebrating a career defined by unparalleled talent, record-breaking performances, and an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Randy Moss

When was Randy Moss born?

Randy Gene Moss was born on February 13, 1977.

Which NFL teams did Randy Moss play for?

Randy Moss played for the Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, and San Francisco 49ers during his 14-season NFL career.

What NFL records does Randy Moss hold?

Randy Moss holds the NFL single-season touchdown reception record with 23 touchdowns (set in 2007 with the New England Patriots) and the NFL single-season touchdown reception record for a rookie with 17 touchdowns (set in 1998 with the Minnesota Vikings). He is also second all-time in career regular-season touchdown receptions with 156.

What does it mean to be "mossed" in football?

To be "mossed" refers to a defensive player being beaten by a wide receiver, usually Randy Moss, on a deep pass or jump ball, often when the receiver makes a spectacular, contested catch over one or more defenders. The term became a widely recognized part of football vernacular.

When was Randy Moss inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

Randy Moss was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018, his first year of eligibility.

What is Randy Moss doing after his NFL career?

After retiring from playing, Randy Moss began a successful career as a studio analyst for ESPN, where he appears on programs like "Sunday NFL Countdown" and "Monday Night Countdown."