Moon Returns To Seahawks

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Warren Moon reported to training camp Wednesday, ending a 3 ½-week holdout over a contract dispute.

After practicing with the team, the 41-year-old

Coach Dennis Erickson said Moon will play the next two exhibition games to get into shape for the season.

"It feels good to be back with the guys," Moon said. "I missed it."

Moon returned one day before the Seahawks were to break training camp. They face San Francisco on Saturday in an exhibition game in Vancouver, British Columbia.

"I need to give myself a fair chance to get ready for the season," Moon said.

The new contract is fair under the circumstances. I'm just a victim of the system," Moon said, referring to the NFL salary cap.

Moon, in the last year of a two-year, $500,000 contract, reportedly had sought $3 million to $5 million. That is about what veteran starting quarterbacks get.

He was acquired last year as a backup but ended up starting and breaking team records for completions (313) and passing yards (3,678). He also was the Pro Bowl MVP.

The holdout was unusual for Moon, who has not been late for camp in a 20-year professional career.

He said he agreed to compromises in the contract negotiations because he wanted a chance to play this season, adding, "I don't know how many chances I'll have left."

Moon said he considered retirement when the talks stalled, but never considered joining another team.

"The bottom line is, it's done, I'm here, I'm happy and I think the Seahawks are happy, too," Moon said.

© 1998 SportsLine USA, Inc. All rights reserved