MINNEAPOLIS — Randy Moss will be in the spotlight Monday night when he is inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor.

But the former Vikings wide receiver first made sure to give back to the Minnesota community as he surprised and met with 15 students from ACES (Athletes Committed to Educating Students) on the sideline before the Vikings season opener.

Moss signed autographs and chatted with the group for a few minutes, stressing the importance of education and imploring the youngsters to listen to their parents and teachers. 

"Always study. There's not enough books on this earth that you could read," Moss said. "Continue to read … reading is knowledge. 

"Even if you don't like it. I don't like it, so know you all know that there's one of you in here where we have something in common," Moss added. "I don't like reading, and you don't either, but guess what? Reading is knowledge, so if I want to continue to get smarter, I'm going to continue to read."

ACES is a Minneapolis-based program for low-income students in grades 4-8 that combines academics, athletics and social interaction.

Moss was also asked about his football playing days and likened his professional career to being a kid at recess. 

"I'm like a kid on the playground," Moss said. "I had fun doing this … it's no different than you being on the playground swinging and having fun with your friends."