The guy wasn't joking.
All Moss and Tom Brady did that year was rewrite the record books, with 23 of Brady's record 50 touchdowns landing in the hands of No. 81.
The two connected again in February of 2008 for what would have (and should have) been the winning touchdown of Super Bowl XLII. Alas, it was not meant to be.
The next year, Brady went down in the opening minutes of the season, and local doubters of Moss thought he'd become a distraction. Instead, he became a captain, helping lead the offense and Matt Cassel to an 11-5 record (those two connected on one of the more beautiful touchdown passes in the history of the game).
Moss continued to be a factor and a fan favorite all the way through this year, when he was surprisingly traded to Minnesota.
With the Vikings now set to visit Foxboro on Sunday, how will Moss be received?
It's an interesting question, to say the least. The fans at Gillette Stadium always loved Moss, and Moss, at times, showed some love in return:
The trade left many Patriots fan conflicted. Some thought it represented a shift in philosophy, bringing the Patriots back to their dynasty days, when they won Super Bowls with no star receivers. Some people figured that, despite public statements on the contrary, Moss must have forced his way out of New England. Others found it completely puzzling that the team shipped away an amazing talent like Moss.
What kind of reception do you think the fans will give Moss. Share your thoughts below.
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