Brett Favre Tells Minnesota Vikings He's Staying Retired

Brett Favre, according to this news report, has told the Minnesota Vikings he will remain retired and won't play a 19th NFL season.

I guess this means he has chosen not to follow in the footsteps of the Rolling Stones or Cher by embarking in another "I Really, Really, Really, Really, REALLY mean it this time!" farewell tour.

I imagine my brother and father-in-law, both Green Bay Packers fans, are very happy.

Can you imagine what would've happened to Favre's legacy had he retired wearing the uniform of the hated Vikings?

That would've been as bad as Emmitt Smith finishing his NFL career as a New York Giant, Philadelphia Eagle or—even worse—Washington Redskin.

Years ago, Barry Sanders gave an enigmatic explanation for why he chose to retire: his desire NOT to play was greater than his desire to play. Perhaps that's why Favre chose to call it a career. He's struggled with injuries.

Favre's longevity and penchant for missing almost no games in his NFL career as a starter amaze me, especially when you consider this Sports Illustrated article and read about the pain Favre was in at 26 the day after a game.

Jokes aside, while I don't see Favre as the greatest quarterback in the game's history, I will see him as the toughest and most passionate. One has to wonder how many more Super Bowls he would've won if he'd had a better supporting cast.

If this is your decision, Mr. Favre, my hat's off to you. You've more than earned the respect of this Cowboys fan.

One question: with you now retired, who will John Madden/Frank Caliendo sing the praises of now?