Minnesota Vikings All Quarter Century Team: Wide Receiver No. 1
In the storied history of the Minnesota Vikings, few positions have showcased as much talent and game-changing ability as wide receiver. From the Metrodome to U.S. Bank Stadium, the Vikings have featured some of the most electrifying pass catchers in the NFL. As part of the franchise’s All Quarter Century Team — celebrating the best players from the past 25 years — there was little debate over who would be crowned as the No. 1 wide receiver: Randy Moss.
When Randy Moss was selected 21st overall in the 1998 NFL Draft, many teams passed on him due to character concerns. The Vikings took the chance — and it became one of the most impactful draft decisions in league history. Moss exploded onto the scene with 17 touchdown receptions in his rookie season, a record at the time. His combination of blazing speed, elite hands, and a leaping ability that left defensive backs helpless made him an instant sensation and transformed Minnesota’s offense into one of the league’s most dangerous.
Moss redefined what it meant to be a deep threat in the NFL. He wasn’t just fast — he could track the football with a rare instinct, adjust mid-air like a basketball player going for a rebound, and make circus catches look routine. During his initial stint with the Vikings (1998–2004), Moss recorded 574 receptions for 9,142 yards and 90 touchdowns. He earned five Pro Bowl selections in that span and helped Minnesota reach two NFC Championship Games.
Statistically and culturally, Moss left an indelible mark on the Vikings and the NFL. The phrase “You got Moss’d” became part of football vernacular, highlighting his highlight-reel plays over defenders. His attitude and swagger fit perfectly with the late ’90s Vikings identity, and he drew national attention to the team with every game he played.
While the Vikings have had other great receivers over the last 25 years — such as Cris Carter (whose peak slightly predates this era), Adam Thielen, Justin Jefferson, and even briefly Sidney Rice — none match Moss in terms of sheer dominance and legacy. Jefferson, in particular, is carving his own path with record-breaking numbers early in his career and could one day challenge Moss’s throne, but for now, Randy remains the gold standard.
What further cements Moss’s status is his impact beyond the stat sheet. He changed how defenses schemed against Minnesota, often drawing double and triple coverage, opening up opportunities for other stars like Carter and running back Robert Smith. His presence elevated quarterbacks like Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, and Jeff George.
In 2018, Moss was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a fitting capstone to a career that began with a thunderclap in Minnesota. His No. 84 jersey remains one of the most iconic in franchise history, and his legacy as the No. 1 wide receiver on the Vikings’ All Quarter Century Team is secure.
In the land of 10,000 lakes, Randy Moss will forever be remembered as the one who made Sundays unforgettable — turning jump balls into touchdowns and skeptics into believers.
