Brett Favre Press Conference: 10 Most Important Things We Learned
One year after coming out of retirement for the first time with the Vikings, Brett Favre was back on the practice field in Mankato.
When he landed in Minnesota Tuesday afternoon, Favre's movements were monitored from the air with as much interest as Al Cowling's white Bronco. The mystery was over, and the secret was out.
After participating in his first practice, Favre and head coach Brad Childress met the media. Here's a look at what we learned from the annual un-retirement press conference.
No. 10: Just Wanted to Give It One More Try
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After coming up short in the NFC Championship game last year, Favre found himself thinking about football more than he wanted to, he said at his press conference Wednesday afternoon.
Favre said that he was touched by the support of his teammates and the outpouring of support from his fans.
He also praised the Vikings organization for their support, and said he was grateful that quarterbacks Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels have welcomed him back with open arms.
No. 9: What's His Motivation?
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The 41 year-old grandfather admitted that he draws motivation from critics who say that he can't play and wants to prove them wrong.
Although he repeatedly said that he won't produce numbers similar to the 4,202 yards and 33 touchdowns he tallied last season, he said his arm feels as strong as ever.
Favre's mantra was simple: I came back because I want to win another Super Bowl.
No. 8: The Famous Visit From Teammates
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Favre opened Wednesday's press conference by saying that the visit to his Mississippi home by teammates Steve Hutchinson, Ryan Longwell and Jared Allen was blown out of proportion. He initially said that he himself made the decision to return.
He later contradicted himself, saying it was difficult to say no to the persuasive Hutchinson and that he was flattered by the support of his teammates.
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No. 7: Too Close to Stop Now
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Favre called the NFC Championship game a "game of destiny" and said that the loss was heartbreaking and took a huge toll on his mental state.
He added that the Vikings organization got so close to the Super Bowl that it was very difficult to walk away from the game.
Favre referenced the abilities of his teammates and said the team is in a great position to reach the Super Bowl, even if he isn't the primary reason behind a deep postseason run.
No. 6: The Question Favre Didn't Have To Answer
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Anyone who saw Wednesday's press conference had to noticed that Favre responded to the few questions he asked in expanded form, going on long, detailed rants. Whether he knew it or not, he had complete command of the press conference.
Favre was not ask to address what part a possible financial boost to his contract played in his return. Of course, the media did present that question to Brad Childress, moments after he had apologized for misleading reporters asking about Favre Tuesday.
Childress gave a terse "no comment" response and quickly tried to move onto the next question. At this point, the exact details of his contract remain a mystery.
No. 5: The Ailing Ankle
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Favre talked openly about his ankle surgery in the offseason, saying that it hasn't completely healed and still gives him pain.
He said that his left ankle has been bothering him for three years and will likely always be an issue. He didn't sound very confident when discussing the condition of his ankle, but was repeated that his arm feels great.
No. 4: The Tagline
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Throughout his press conference, Favre repeated the following phrase again and again: "I'm doing this for the guys."
Favre pointed to his teammates as being the primary reason for return, saying how much he loved being in the locker room.
Interestingly, Favre's strategy was to deflect praise onto his teammates, and say that his performance isn't necessarily going to be the key to the Vikings success.
No. 3:
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Along with repeating a desire to win for both himself and his teammates, Favre stated multiple times that he does not want to fail.
It's rare for an athlete to admit fear, and Favre's statement was a refreshing breath of honesty. He seemed genuinely concerned about his ankle. He cautioned that his best contributions this season might be leadership and a willingness to defer to Adrian Peterson.
Favre reiterated that he doesn't expect to match his 2009 numbers, which could be the first step of damage control if he fails to live up to expectations.
No. 2: The Preseason Debut
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Favre wants to play in the Vikings preseason game Sunday, and although no official announcement has been made yet.
But let's be honest, Brett usually gets his way.
Vikings coach Brad Childress, normally a very tight-lipped and cautious individual, left open the possibility for Favre's debut, saying that 19 years of experience has certainly prepared him to play right away.
No. 1: Favre:
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Breaking News: Brett Favre plans to retire after his 20th NFL season. He said it.
Favre was asked how long he plans to play, and replied "my contract is up after the season. It's been 20 years."
We all know you better than that, Brett.
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