Larry Fitzgerald Sr., a respected journalist and father of NFL legend Larry Fitzgerald Jr., found himself under fire earlier this week after sharing private health information about Hall of Famer Randy Moss without the family’s permission. The incident has sparked widespread criticism and prompted responses from Moss’s family and Fitzgerald’s son.
The Initial Disclosure
During the 66th NFF Hall of Fame Ceremony in Las Vegas, Fitzgerald Sr. shared news about Randy Moss’s health that had not been made public. He posted on social media that Moss’s recent absence from his ESPN analyst role was due to a liver cancer diagnosis.
“66th NFF Hall of Fame Ceremony here in Las Vegas just heard that Vikings HOF Randy Moss has liver cancer. Let’s show the power of prayer and pull Moss through this,” Fitzgerald Sr. wrote.
The post immediately drew backlash, particularly from Moss’s family, who had not authorized the disclosure of such personal information.
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Family Pushback
Thaddeus Moss, Randy Moss’s son and a former LSU tight end, strongly criticized Fitzgerald Sr. for making the announcement without confirmation or consent.
“This is disgusting,” Thaddeus wrote. “You have no right to try to make private matters public for the sake of engagement. I do not believe my father talks to you, so check your [expletive] sources.”
Larry Fitzgerald Jr., the Arizona Cardinals great, also weighed in, urging his father to respect Moss’s privacy.
“Dad, I think it’s best to respect his privacy on this,” Fitzgerald Jr. said. “If he feels ready to share more about his health, he will. In the meantime, let’s focus on sending him positive energy, prayers, and support rather than speculating.”
Fitzgerald Sr.’s Response
After the backlash, Fitzgerald Sr. responded by expressing his support for Moss and his family, though he refrained from further commenting on the situation.
“I have no comment other than I know Randy, love Randy, and I’m praying for Randy,” Fitzgerald Sr. told the Daily Mail. A long-time journalist in Minnesota, Fitzgerald Sr. has spent over four decades covering sports for the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder and is known for his dedication to the craft. However, this incident has brought his judgment into question.
Moss’s Statement on His Health
Randy Moss, addressing his health directly for the first time, spoke about his situation on ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown. While wearing sunglasses during the broadcast, Moss explained why he had been away and assured viewers of his determination to face the challenge.
“I just want to let the viewers know that me and my wife, me and my family, we are battling something internally,” Moss said. “I have some great doctors around me. I couldn’t miss the show, I wanted to be here with you guys, I feel great.”
He added, “If y’all see me with these Michigan turnover glasses that I have on, it’s not being disrespectful.”
Support from the NFL Community
The NFL world has rallied around Moss, offering prayers and well wishes for his recovery. Former teammate Tom Brady, who shared the field with Moss during their time with the New England Patriots, was among those to publicly show support.
Fans and colleagues alike have echoed the sentiment, sending messages of encouragement and strength to Moss as he navigates his health battle.
A Lesson in Privacy
The incident has raised important questions about privacy and the responsibilities of those in media to handle sensitive information with care. While Fitzgerald Sr.’s intentions may have been to rally support for Moss, the backlash underscores the need for consent and discretion when dealing with such personal matters.
As Moss continues his fight surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, the focus remains on his health and well-being.
For Fitzgerald Sr., the episode serves as a reminder of the fine line journalists must walk between reporting and respecting personal boundaries.
