Randy Moss Retires: Expect a Comeback if the Situation is Right

It didn't take long after Pro Bowl wide receiver Randy Moss announced his retirement that talk of a comeback was bouncing around talk radio and the blogosphere.

Simply stated, few people believe this is it for Moss. The 13-year-veteran wide receiver is 34 years old, and it seems that he still has something left.

In an interview with John Buccigross on ESPN, Moss's agent Joel Segal didn't seem to budge when asked how definite it was that he would retired for good.

"One thing I've learned about knowing Randy over the years is, he's a man of his word," said Segal. "He's always told me the truth on everything we've gone over. So I have no reason to doubt in any way shape or form that Randy is not true to this."

Segal was recently boasting of Moss's fantastic shape. ESPN questioned why Moss would make the effort to be in good shape, and then abruptly retire.

This is what Segal said just two weeks ago: "Randy has been working out, two-a-days, all spring and summer in West Virginia. He is determined, motivated and quite frankly has a huge chip on his shoulder. Whatever team ends up getting Randy, they're going to know they're getting the old Randy Moss. He's not just coming in to be on the team, he's going to be Randy Moss -- a difference maker."

What changed between now and then? More than likely, Moss was very interested in specific teams, and those teams weren't particularly keen on signing him given their payroll, and their status at wide receiver.

Moss likely wants to avoid training camp. For veterans, training camp can be a drag with young players learning the NFL system.

Between now and near the end of the regular season, Moss will probably survey the teams that are in the hunt for the playoffs, and join one of them if they have a need at wide out, and if they are willing to give him a fair contract.

It's easy to imagine that at least one prominent team will need Moss. The NFL has become a pass-happy league, and Moss is still a weapon. There are plenty of surprise teams each season, and one will likely reach out to one of the all-time greats, especially if he is in as great condition as Segal claims.

The New York Jets, New England Patriots, New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens are teams that might consider adding Moss.

Cris Carter described Randy Moss as a winner who wants to play for a contender. He also confirmed that Segal was accurate in saying that Moss was in great shape.

With the Patriots signing Chad Ochocinco, and the Jets signing Plaxico Burress, it seems that Moss had no other choice but to call it quits, and play the waiting game.

Should contending teams not need a wide receiver, Moss will likely call it a career. It's doubtful that he would return for below market value or to a struggling team.

If Moss has indeed retired, he leaves behind some very impressive statistics:. The former Marshall star is currently fifth in receiving yards (14,858), eighth in receptions (954), and fifth in all-time touchdowns (154.)