Thaddeus Moss picked Redskins over two other teams in undrafted free agency

The Washington Redskins signed tight end Thaddeus Moss as an undrafted free agent in 2020. Moss picked the ‘Skins over two other teams vying for his services.

The Washington Redskins only brought in four undrafted players following the 2020 NFL Draft. One of them was LSU tight end Thaddeus Moss. Once thought to be a potential mid-round pick, Moss fell out of the draft due to a foot injury coupled with his average-at-best skill set as a receiver.

But the Redskins were able to land him. And it’s all thanks to some quick work on the phone lines.

According to NBC Sports Washington’s JP Finlay, Moss chose to sign with the Redskins over two other teams that showed an interest in him: The Cincinnati Bengals and the New England Patriots. And why was that? The Redskins called him up first.

Well done by Kyle Smith and Ron Rivera to quickly work to lock up Moss. Even though his ceiling may be that of a backup tight end at the next level, Moss still should have a shot to crack the Redskins’ depth chart given the little talent they have at the position. And he is a willing blocker which should help him out, too.

Of the three teams mentioned, the Redskins were probably Moss’ best shot at securing a roster space. He’ll be competing against the likes of Logan Thomas, Richard Rodgers, Jeremy Sprinkle, and Hale Hentges for a role on the roster. And given that he may be able to play an H-back role, he could have an edge to sneak onto the roster, as Rivera has employed a fullback in each of his nine seasons as a head coach.

That said, it’s somewhat surprising that Moss didn’t go to the Bengals. Why? His college quarterback, Joe Burrow, was selected by the team with the No. 1 overall pick. And beyond 2019 second-round pick Drew Sample and veteran CJ Uzomah, the Bengals’ depth chart at tight end is wide open.

As for the Patriots, Moss could’ve fit in there especially given the success his father, Randy Moss, had playing for the squad. But given that the Patriots drafted two tight ends in the third round, Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene, the younger Moss was probably better off choosing a more open tight end room that needed some younger talent as opposed to a veteran presence.

At the end of the day, getting Moss was a nice move for the Redskins. They’ll give him an opportunity to win a spot on the team and it’s possible he could turn into a solid backup for the team. It wouldn’t have been a shock to see the ‘Skins target Moss as early as the fifth round. So, getting him without using a draft pick is certainly a great move.

And it all came because they were quick to call him up once the 2020 NFL Draft came to a close.