MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The New England Patriots confirm they are sending star receiver Randy Moss back to the Minnesota Vikings.

The Patriots announced the trade on the team’s website Wednesday. Coach Bill Belichick says his dealings with Moss have been “honest, thoughtful and with great mutual respect.”

Moss caught 50 touchdowns in just over three seasons with the Patriots, including an NFL record 23 in 2007.

The trade sends him back to Minnesota, where he played the first seven seasons of his career. The Vikings (1-2) are in desperate need of a deep threat for Brett Favre with Pro Bowler Sidney Rice out because of a hip injury.

The Patriots say they received an undisclosed draft pick. ESPN and Foxsports.com report that it’s a third-round pick.