Eric Moss, a former NFL player and the older half-brother of Hall of Famer Randy Moss, died on March 10, 2024, at the age of 44. His death shocked the sports world and left many fans wondering what happened to the former Ohio State Buckeye and Minnesota Viking. Here is what we know about Eric Moss’ cause of death and his life and career.
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A Mysterious Illness
The official cause of death of Eric Moss was not revealed to the public, but it was reported that he had been battling a mysterious illness for some time. According to NBC Sports, he had been hospitalized several times in the past few months and had undergone multiple surgeries. His condition worsened in the days leading up to his death and he passed away peacefully in his sleep.
According to AP News, Randy Moss posted a tribute to his brother on his Instagram account, featuring a photo of the two in Vikings uniforms. He wrote, “RIP gentle giant” and added a line of broken hearts. He did not mention the nature of his brother’s illness or any details about his funeral arrangements.
A Versatile Athlete
Eric Moss was born on February 26, 1980, in Rand, West Virginia. He was a standout athlete in both football and basketball at DuPont High School, where he earned All-State honors and national recognition. He played as a fullback, defensive end, tight end, and offensive tackle, and was known for his strength, speed, and versatility. He also averaged 26 points and 10.5 rebounds per game as a senior in basketball.
He spent a year at Fork Union Military Academy, where he caught 28 passes and seven touchdowns as a tight end. He then moved to Ohio State, where he played in 14 games from 1993 to 1994. He switched positions several times, playing as a defensive tackle, fullback, offensive tackle, and tight end. He scored one touchdown in his college career, a nine-yard catch against Pittsburgh in 1993.
He entered the 1994 season as the starting left tackle for the Buckeyes, opposite All-American Korey Stringer. However, he was replaced by freshman and future Hall of Famer Orlando Pace, and saw limited action for the rest of the season. He left Ohio State after his sophomore year and did not play football for nearly three years.
A Brief NFL Stint
Despite being out of football for a long time, Eric Moss caught the attention of the Minnesota Vikings, who signed him to their practice squad in 1997. He was promoted to the active roster late that season and played in one game as an offensive lineman. He wore number 79, while his younger brother Randy Moss, who joined the Vikings as a first-round draft pick in 1998, wore number 18 before switching to 84.
Eric Moss suffered a high ankle sprain in 1998 and was placed on injured reserve, missing the entire season. He never got to play on the field with his brother, who had a sensational rookie year and helped the Vikings reach the NFC Championship Game. Eric Moss then spent one season in NFL Europe with the Scottish Claymores, before retiring from football in 1999.
A Legacy of Love and Respect
Eric Moss may not have had a long or successful NFL career, but he left a lasting impression on those who knew him. He was described as a hard worker, a gentle giant, and a loving brother. He was close to Randy Moss, who often credited him for inspiring him to pursue football and supporting him throughout his career. He was also a role model for many young athletes in his hometown of Rand, where he was involved in community service and youth programs.
Eric Moss is survived by his wife, two children, his mother, his brother, and his extended family and friends. He will be remembered as a talented and versatile athlete, a devoted family man, and a kind and generous soul. Rest in peace, Eric Moss.
