Childress makes statement on the departure of Moss

The Minnesota Vikings have acknowledged that they will be parting ways with wide receiver Randy Moss.

In a 37-word statement on the team’s Web site, coach Brad Childress makes it clear that Moss will be released.

“This decision was made based on what we thought was in the best interests of the Minnesota Vikings, both in the short and long term,” Childress said. “We wish Randy the best as he moves forward in his career.”

A league source has said the decision was made by Childress and that other members of the organization did not support the move. However, the coach controls the 53-man roster and the call, ultimately, is his. Moss played four games with the Vikings after Minnesota traded a third-round pick to the New England Patriots for him.

Assuming Moss is placed on waivers before the 4 p.m. deadline Tuesday, he will have to clear waivers before he can become a free agent Wednesday afternoon. Chances are some team will put in a claim for Moss, who is owed roughly $3.38 million remaining on his 2010 contract.

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