Moss Stands PAT!

WR Randy Moss is not going anywhere...he's standing pat! Patriot that is!

Were Patriot fans losing hope in getting WR Randy Moss signed? The Patriot faithful had already seen a handful of players sign with new clubs through the first three days in free agency, including cornerback Asante Samuel (Eagles), receiver Donte’ Stallworth (Browns) and cornerback Randall Gay (Saints) . Moss definitely became the top priority in the fans mind!

It seems like the whole situation was always under control though, no matter what the media was reporting. Both the Patriots Organization and Moss and his Agent have been close in negotiations since the start of free agency, having agreed on the overall value of the pact. The main sticking point was the amount of guaranteed money included in the deal. There were many reports out their about Moss talking to other teams such as Green Bay, or joining back up with his old Quarterback Dante Culpepper, etc, but none of these seem to be the case. Talks between the sides heated up today though, as Moss's top priority was returning to New England. The deal was finalized and Randy is a New England Patriot again.

WR Randy Moss posted a message on his website, therealrandymoss.com, to the fans of New England: "I want to take time out to thank all of the fans for their support and for wishing me well in my return to New England," he wrote. "I'm ready to get back. We have some unfinished business to take care of."

Coach Bill Belichick also released a statement: “What Randy did for our team last year was outstanding. He is one of our most consistent, competitive and team-oriented players and it is undoubtedly a relationship we are excited to continue.”

Tim DiPiero, the agent for Randy Moss, detailed the contract with the Patriots in an email to reporters: "I am pleased to confirm that Randy Moss has signed a three year contract with the New England Patriots. The contract calls for a total payout of $27 million with $15 million guaranteed, $12 million of which is in the form of a signing bonus. Randy is grateful to Mr. Kraft, Coach Belichick and Scott Pioli for agreeing to the terms of this contract. Randy was serious about wanting to stay. Because of Randy's record-breaking year, the interest in him was very high. Randy took less than he could have to rejoin his teammates."

And Patriot fans breathe a sigh of relief…