Moss to Packers Makes Sense

A couple of days after quarterback Brett Favre announced his return; reports out of Green Bay suggest he asked the Packers to seriously consider a trade for disgruntled Oakland Raiders receiver Randy Moss.

At first, I thought there was no way the Packers should consider trading for Moss, who infamously pretended to moon Packers fans during the 2005 season. However, after giving it some thought, a trade for him makes a lot of sense.

After managing to improve their defense in 2006, the Packers are an offensive playmaker or two away from being a serious contender in the NFC. Their most pressing needs on offense are running back and tight end. But, even though they have a lot of depth at receiver, they only have one who consistently plays well.

Since the 2007 draft class is relatively weak and anyone drafted would likely need to develop, the quickest way to improve is with veteran players. And, playing opposite pro-bowl receiver Donald Driver, Moss would create headaches for opposing defenses; much like he did when he was playing opposite Cris Carter on the Vikings. He would also help the development of 2006 draft pick Greg Jennings, who made some big plays last season but was inconsistent the second half of the year.

The Packers reportedly can get him relatively cheap. The Raiders, desperate to unload him, are said to be asking for only a third round draft pick and wide receiver in trade. My thought is, if the Packers do this, they would give the Raiders Robert Ferguson. Ferguson, while full of potential, has been a disappointment for the organization because of his inability to stay healthy and would benefit from a change of location.

There are a couple of negatives with a trade like that and I know general manager Ted Thompson is going to consider them.

First, Moss is famous for getting into trouble. He has admitted using drugs and, in 2002, was arrested for hitting a police officer for his car. Moss has also said he "plays when he wants to play" and will take plays off during a game.