Patriots Issue Statement on Moss Trade
The Patriots have issued a statement on the trade involving Randy Moss, and here are some comments from head coach Bill Belichick about this transaction.
"Over the course of the past several months, I have spoken with Randy and his representative about Randy’s place on our team and his future in football. Consistent with my dealings with Randy from the day we acquired him through our conversation this morning, it has been honest, thoughtful and with great mutual respect.
"While I will keep private the details of internal conversations with players and staff, suffice it to say that many things were taken into consideration before making the trade,” said Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick. “In this business, there are complex and often difficult decisions, but it is my responsibility to make them based on what I feel is best for our football team, in both the short term and long term. I am grateful for the opportunity to have coached Randy Moss and aside from facing him as an opponent, I wish him the very best for the remainder of his Hall of Fame career."
Moss was acquired by New England on April 29, 2007 from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for a fourth-round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft (110th overall). During his first season in New England, Moss helped the Patriots finish with a 16-0 regular-season record, setting an NFL record with 23 touchdown receptions.