The NFL world united last week to send well wishes to Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss, who revealed that he is battling cancer and recently underwent a Whipple procedure to remove tumors on his pancreas, liver, gall bladder, and bile duct.
On Monday, one of Moss’ former franchises — the Vikings — shared the spotlight, facing off against NFC North rivals Chicago under the bright lights.
Given Moss’ significance to the organization — three of his First-Team All-Pro appearances came in purple and gold — it seemed inevitable that Minnesota would give its longtime pass-catcher a rousing bit of support.
When the moment did come, Vikings star Justin Jefferson made sure to let the world know just what Moss means to him and the broader football ecosystem at large.
Here’s what you need to know.
NFL HQ: Live NFL scores | Updated NFL standings | Full NFL schedule
Justin Jefferson, Vikings pay tribute to Randy Moss
Jefferson erupted in a major way partway through the first quarter, corralling a Sam Darnold effort in the back of the end zone in a fashion eerily similar to that of Moss all those years back.
After collecting his bearings — and completing his patented Griddy move — Jefferson stepped to the camera. He proceeded to deliver a heartfelt message directed at his famous predecessor.
“We love you Randy,” Jefferson bellowed, fingers fixed in a heart-like shape. “That’s for you.”
“WE LOVE YOU RANDY!” 🫶 @RandyMoss pic.twitter.com/6qS4kScTzC
— NFL (@NFL) December 17, 2024
Jefferson recently surpassed Moss for the title of the NFL’s all-time leading receiver in his first five seasons (based on total yardage). Moss has regularly praised Jefferson for his receiving exploits, so it’s little surprise to see Jefferson return the favor, particularly in this moment of upheaval in Moss’ life.
Jefferson even donned Moss’ famous jersey during Monday’s postgame presser.
Justin Jefferson still repping Randy Moss postgame. pic.twitter.com/Hx9Bt8y9LG
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 17, 2024
He wasn’t the only Minnesota-based luminary to lend support to Moss and his recovery. Cris Carter and Jake Reed, Moss’ former linemates during his time in Minneapolis, made an appearance at U.S. Bank Stadium on Monday night. Outfitted in their former uniforms, Carter and Reed lifted Moss’ iconic No. 84 kit on the field prior to kickoff.
You’re with us tonight, 84 💜#LetsMossCancer pic.twitter.com/ZVjoFqxLUp
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 17, 2024
There’s plenty of love for Moss across football circles. Monday night simply served as reaffirmation of it.
LUV U ALL!#letsmosscancer https://t.co/925w4LJhNN
— Randy Moss (@RandyMoss) December 17, 2024
Get well soon, Randy.
