NFL Legend Abruptly Leaves ESPN: 'Prayer Warriors I Need U'
Legendary NFL wide receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss, renowned for elevating his quarterbacks with his exceptional skills during his playing days, now finds himself seeking support of a different kind.
Moss, who transitioned to a successful career as a broadcaster, recently revealed that he is facing a personal health battle. The announcement came in a cryptic and heartfelt message shared on Dec. 1, just before the airing of ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown.
Appearing in an Instagram video alongside his co-panelists, former NFL coach Rex Ryan, ex-quarterback Alex Smith, and former linebacker Tedi Bruschi, Moss opened up about his condition while urging men to prioritize their health.
“Go get ur checkups!!” Moss captioned the post. “Prayer Warriors, I need u.”
Speaking directly to his followers, Moss explained, “I’m battling something, man, and it’s something internal. I just ask for all the prayer warriors to put their blessing hands on me and my family through these hard times. People were talking about my eyes last week.”
Despite the challenges, Moss expressed confidence in his support system. “Your boy is going to get through it. I got a great team of doctors and got a great family around me,” he assured fans.
Five days after Moss’ initial post, ESPN released a statement providing more details about his leave of absence.
Update on @RandyMoss pic.twitter.com/E9fGJUhK5U
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) December 6, 2024
“Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy Moss will step away from Sunday NFL Countdown for an extended time to focus on a personal health challenge,” the network announced. “He briefly addressed the matter at the start of the show on Dec. 1. For nearly a decade, Randy has been an invaluable member of the team, consistently elevating ‘Countdown’ with his insight and passion. He has ESPN’s full support, and we look forward to welcoming him back when he is ready.”
Moss is celebrated for an illustrious NFL career that spanned stints with several teams, most notably the Minnesota Vikings, where he emerged as a rookie sensation, and the New England Patriots, where he set records alongside quarterback Tom Brady. He also played for the then-Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers, and Tennessee Titans.
This health struggle comes during an otherwise successful phase in Moss’ broadcasting career. However, it has brought into focus the importance of health and the power of community support.
One of Moss’ most iconic performances occurred during a 1998 Thanksgiving game against the Dallas Cowboys. In that unforgettable matchup, Moss turned three receptions into an astounding 163 yards and three touchdowns, helping the Vikings secure a 46-36 victory. The game remains a hallmark of his career, immortalized in NFL lore and on platforms like YouTube.
As Moss navigates this challenging time, fans and colleagues alike rally behind the football legend, sending prayers and well-wishes for his recovery.