America's Slobbering Love Affair: Brett Favre

Like the left-wing media and Barack Obama during the presidential election...the sports world can't get enough of Brett Favre. The latest episode of the soap opera played out on the premiere of "Joe Buck Live" on HBO last night. When asked by Buck if he would come out of retirement to play again, Favre said..."Ummm...maybe." Favre's reply was unsatisfactory to Buck who pressed the three time NFL MVP for a sure answer. One things for certain...if he's coming back...it will be in a Vikings uniform. Minnesota is the only team Favre has spoken to and according to Favre it would be a "perfect fit" considering he knows the Vikings offense, "well enough to teach it." The ol' gunslinger did verify that he recently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his throwing arm and will know in several weeks whether he'll be able to put on the cleats for a 19th NFL season. Favre said he realizes that people are tired of the roller coaster ride of drama ESPN has taken us on these past couple of weeks. "It is what it is," said Favre. So what's the big picture here? Do we take Favre at his word or say enough is enough from Mr. Congeniality? At times during the interview...Favre looked completely honest and real...understanding that his legacy and image were at stake with the viewer at home. However, small smirks also broke out on his face when asked if he would return...leading you to think he actually was enjoying that roller coaster ride spoken of above. Though Favre has appeared to turn his back on the Packers and Jets front office; I don't believe the quarterback ever gave up on his teammates when he was with those organizations. He's one of the greatest competitors to ever play the game...and finding a way to feed that hunger without the game of football is something I believe Favre has struggled with more than other past NFL greats (and I ultimately think that is what keeps him coming back). So the "hatters" take that Favre is stirring the pot as a way to continue to put the spotlight on himself...for selfish reasons...is something I do not think he is into. Favre commented that he rarely sees reports about himself in the media....and I can't picture him sitting at home smiling as SportsCenter reports on the latest dose of Brett Favre news. His foundation has donated over $2 million to charities in Mississippi and Wisconsin. On the other hand, Favre has made many mistakes...going into and coming out of retirement on more than one occasion (mistakes I think he would acknowledge). He hasn't been able to make decisions in a decent timeframe regarding his comeback(s). This has largely led to the demise of strong frienships he's built with the city of Green Bay and the Packers organization from 92-08. Though, we now know ESPN was wrong in reporting there ever was a timeframe between the Vikings and Favre (I think there's a whole lot behind the scenes we don't know). And like so many of us who wake up each morning and feel differently about an issue...Favre wants to ensure that he's doing the right thing with regards to playing in the NFL. He doesn't want to do it half-heartedly or have it make a negative impact on his family. Cut the man some slack...at least enough for him to continue to make the sports world interesting. At any rate...it's great TV! And please...stay tuned for the next episode of "America's Slobbering Love Affair: Brett Favre."