Randy Moss Traded from New England Patriots to Minnesota Vikings

Before the season began, Randy Moss complained about his situation in New England. He expressed that he felt "unwanted" on the Patriots team, and seemed to insinuate that he wanted a trade. Now, after four weeks of play, Randy Moss gets his wish, being traded to the Minnesota Vikings. The New England Patriots will receive a third round draft pick in return.

How Randy Moss Trade Effects Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings' passing offense has struggled so far in 2010, suffering from injuries and inconsistency. Pro Bowl WR Sidney Rice probably won't be available until halfway through the season because of offseason hip surgery. WR Percy Harvin missed part of the preseason because of migraines and hasn't seen a lot of action yet in the regular season. The Vikings tried to complete a trade earlier in the season for Vincent Jackson of the San Diego Chargers, but felt that the Chargers' asking price was too steep.

Randy Moss gives Brett Favre a much needed downfield threat, something that the Vikings offense has been missing with Rice's absence. Although Moss only has nine receptions so far in 2010, he has 3 TDs and has caught six first down passes so far this season. There have been questions about Moss' work ethic and character throughout his career, but his talent is undeniable. He's a huge upgrade for the Minnesota Vikings, who are currently sitting at 1-2, a game and a half back in the NFC North.

How Randy Moss Trade Effects New England Patriots

Randy Moss has been largely absent from the New England offense so far in 2010. He only has nine receptions for the Patriots, and didn't catch a single ball in New England's Week 4 win over the Miami Dolphins. With the Pats moving away from the long passing game and instead going with more short passing formations, Moss became expendable.

The biggest question for the Patriots following the Moss trade is whether or not the Patriots are done trading. Acquiring only a third round pick in return for Moss seems a little light, but New England now has eight draft picks in the first four rounds of the 2011 draft, and they could easily try and trade a couple of those picks to help shore up their defense or acquire a running back to replace the injured Kevin Faulk.

Sources:

http://content.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/salaries/playerdetail.aspx?player=1663

New England Trades WR Moss to Minnesota

All other stats acquired from espn.com