Randy Moss, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, left an unmatched legacy with the Minnesota Vikings and beyond. Known as “The Freak” for his extraordinary speed, 6-foot-4 frame, and record-breaking 17 touchdown receptions as a rookie in 1998, Moss redefined the wide receiver position. His career stats—982 catches, 15,292 yards, and 156 touchdowns—cemented his status as a legend. Yet, for his youngest son, Montigo Moss, this towering legacy is both an inspiration and a challenge. Montigo’s journey to carve his own path in professional football, particularly with the Vikings, is a story of resilience, individuality, and determination to step out from his father’s shadow.
A Humble Beginning at the University of Maine
Unlike his father, who starred at Marshall University before being drafted in the first round by the Vikings, Montigo took a less heralded route. He played at the University of Maine, an FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) program not known for producing NFL talent. Despite the lower profile, Montigo shone brightly, leading the Maine Black Bears in his final season with 61 receptions, 722 yards, and seven touchdowns. His performance earned him All-CAA honors, showcasing his ability to make an impact at a smaller program.
Montigo’s path contrasts with that of his older brother, Thaddeus Moss, who played tight end at LSU and won a national championship alongside Justin Jefferson in 2019 but failed to secure a lasting NFL career. Montigo’s decision to attend Maine and his focus on earning recognition through performance rather than pedigree reflect his desire to build his own identity. His 6-foot-1, 220-pound frame, while not as lanky as his father’s, offers a physical presence that stands out, and his ability to high-point the ball draws comparisons to Randy’s contested-catch prowess.
A Long-Shot Opportunity with the Vikings
Montigo’s journey to the NFL began with a significant hurdle: he went undrafted in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, the Minnesota Vikings, the team where his father became a legend, offered him a lifeline—an invitation to their rookie minicamp on a tryout basis from May 9-12, 2025, at TCO Performance Center in Eagan. For Montigo, this was a dream opportunity, albeit one with no guarantees. “To be completely honest, this was my only opportunity, so I jumped right on it,” he said, noting that he was nearly in tears when his agent called with the news. “Regardless if my dad played here or not, they gave me a chance to come prove myself.”
The Vikings’ receiving corps, featuring stars like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, is among the league’s most talented, making Montigo’s path to a roster spot daunting. With third-round pick Tai Felton and veteran Jalen Nailor also in the mix, Montigo faces stiff competition. Yet, during the minicamp, he showed flashes of potential, making impressive catches and leveraging his physicality. He acknowledged areas for improvement but remained focused on giving his all, stating, “I can’t imagine football ending here.”
Guidance from a Legend
Montigo’s relationship with his father is a cornerstone of his journey. Randy Moss, who announced in December 2024 that he was battling cancer in his bile duct, has been a source of inspiration and guidance. By May 2025, Randy was doing much better, even training with Montigo and running routes together. “I’ve been training with him for about a month,” Montigo shared. “He’s out there running some routes with me.” This hands-on support underscores Randy’s role as both a mentor and a coach. After practices, Montigo planned to call his father for advice, noting, “He will coach me up. I’m definitely staying in contact with him.”
Randy’s own resilience—returning to ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown” in February 2025 amid his cancer treatment—likely fuels Montigo’s determination. The elder Moss’s pride in his son’s opportunity is evident, and their close bond provides Montigo with a unique resource as he navigates the pressures of professional football.
Embracing the Shadow While Forging His Own Path
Montigo is acutely aware of the comparisons to his father. At the Vikings’ minicamp, reporters frequently asked about Randy, prompting Montigo to reflect, “It’s a weird feeling. I guess I’m caught in the shadow.” Yet, he views this as motivation rather than a burden. Wearing jersey number 81—a nod to Randy’s number during his Patriots stint—Montigo embraces his heritage while striving to create his own legacy. His confident grin and demeanor echo his father’s, but his journey is distinctly his own.
The Vikings’ decision to invite Montigo may carry an element of sentimentality, given Randy’s iconic status. However, Montigo is determined to prove he belongs based on merit. His performance at Maine, where he was a standout despite the program’s modest profile, and his work ethic at minicamp demonstrate his commitment to earning his place. As he competes for a spot, Montigo carries the weight of his father’s name with pride but is focused on writing his own chapter in the NFL.
A Story Still Unfolding
Montigo Moss’s path to the NFL is a long shot, with no guarantees beyond the rookie minicamp. The Vikings’ crowded receiver room and the competitive nature of the league present formidable challenges. Yet, his story is one of perseverance and heart. With his father’s guidance, a strong college resume, and a relentless drive to succeed, Montigo is taking the first steps to step out of Randy Moss’s shadow. Whether he makes the Vikings’ roster or continues his journey elsewhere, Montigo’s effort to define himself as more than “Randy Moss’s son” is a testament to his character and ambition. As he put it, “I’ve got to give it my all.” For now, that’s exactly what he’s doing, one catch at a time.