Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - No longer will a defensive back have to cover Randy Moss.

Unable to latch onto an NFL club in this shortened offseason, the sure-fire Hall of Fame wide receiver has reportedly decided to retire rather than continue playing. Both ESPN and NFL.com are reporting his decision.

The 34-year-old Moss began last season with the New England Patriots, but bitterness over his contract situation -- he was in the final year of his deal -- and a belief he was not appreciated by the franchise led to him being dealt on October 6 to the Minnesota Vikings, the team for which he started his career. Less than a month later, Moss was claimed off waivers by the Tennessee Titans.

Moss spent the first seven years of his career with the Vikings, who selected the Marshall product with the 21st overall pick in the 1998 draft. He made an immediate impact on the league, catching 17 touchdown passes in his first season.

Following his first stint with the Vikings, Moss played two years with the Oakland Raiders before joining the Patriots, who acquired the wide receiver for a fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft.

In his first season with New England, Moss set an NFL record with 23 touchdown receptions.

For his career, Moss caught 954 passes for 14,858 yards. With 153 receiving touchdowns, Moss is tied for second place all-time with Terrell Owens. Only Jerry Rice (197) has caught more TD passes.

08/01 13:29:25 ET