NFL legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss has temporarily stepped back from his ESPN duties to address a private health matter.
While Moss has shared some information about his challenges, conflicting reports have stirred controversy online.
During the December 1 broadcast of Sunday NFL Countdown, Moss hinted at his condition, appearing on air wearing sunglasses and addressing viewers directly.
“I just wanted to let the viewers know that me and my wife and my family, we are battling something internally. You know, I have some great doctors around me,” Moss said.
“I couldn’t miss the show, I wanted to be here with you guys, I feel great. But if you all see me with these ‘Michigan turnover glasses’ that I have on, it’s not being disrespectful because I’m on television, man. I’m battling something … I need all the prayer warriors. God bless you all. Thanks for the prayers.”
In his absence, Moss’s signature segment, “You Got Mossed,” aired as a tribute on December 8, with Moss expressing gratitude online: “I luv my teammates and my fans!! #Skol.”
In a surprising new development, veteran sports journalist Larry Fitzgerald Sr. – father of former NFL receiver Larry Fitzgerald – posted a now-debunked claim on X about Moss’s health.
“66th NFF Hall of of Fame Ceremony here in Las Vegas just heard that Vikings HOF Randy Moss has liver cancer. Let’s show the power of prayer and pull Moss through this. I love you Randy,” Fitzgerald Sr. posted.
Moss’s son, former NFL tight end Thaddeus Moss, swiftly rebuked Fitzgerald for spreading unverified information.
“This is disgusting. You have no right to try to make private matters public for the sake of engagement. I do not believe my father talks to you, so check your f*cking sources,” the younger Moss posted on X.
Legendary quarterback Brett Favre (who has suddenly found himself back in the news cycle) initially joined the wave of concern, posting his own message of support.
“Just heard the news that Randy Moss has liver cancer. Prayers to him and his family. Randy is and will always be one of the all time greats to ever run a route. Definitely on the NFL WR Mt. Rushmore,” Favre posted on X.
However, Thaddeus responded directly to correct the record, clarifying that the reports of cancer were false.
“Brett, the support is appreciated, truly … This is not true. My father will address the world when he is ready to,” he posted.
The Minnesota Vikings organization, along with former teammates and fans, have rallied around Moss during this period.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who played alongside Moss on the New England Patriots in 2008, expressed the team’s solidarity.
“I just want to, on behalf of the whole Minnesota Vikings organization, just send him our well wishes and support,” O’Connell said. “We love Randy and know our fan base feels the same way. [He’s] really revered by all Vikings fans – and really by all NFL fans, the Hall of Famer that he is.
“I just want to let him know that we’re here for him, and we always got his back. So just well wishes and support to him.”
While I’m sure Fitzgerald Sr. meant well, Thaddeus is correct that it’s not his place to speak publicly about Randy’s private condition, especially when what he’s saying isn’t even true!
What are your thoughts on the unfortunate situation???
