Randy Moss
Although the Patriots blew out the Bengals today in convincing fashion, 38-24, all isn’t well between the team and its All-Pro receiver Randy Moss.
According to Mike Reiss of ESPN Boston, Moss told reporters after the game that he feels “smacked in the face” by New England if they don’t offer him a new contract before the offseason begins. This comes three days after his quarterback, Tom Brady, got paid the big bucks he’s been seeking.
Moss went on to say that he doesn’t plan on starting any trouble with management and intends to play out his contract. He expressed his desire to stay with the Patriots by stating, “I don’t want to leave here.”
Reiss is right by predicting this won’t go over well with owner Bob Kraft or coach Bill Belichick. It can be construed as putting himself before the team, especially right after a huge win at home. The Pats might be hesitant to hand over a new deal to a 33-year old player who –although remains close to elite — is declining. The uncertainty over the collective bargaining agreement won’t help things, either.
If this situation gets more out of hand, New England would be smart to give him a short-term (one or two-year), incentive-laden deal with a good chunk of money up front. For now, we’ll just have to keep tabs on how it plays out.
