What's Left For #4 to Prove?

A month ago using the “F” word (Favre) was as taboo as criticizing Tim Tebow.  Now that the circus has officially arrived in Minnesota, we seem to be hanging on every word the Viking’s 20 year veteran quarterback says.  In a press conference on August 18^th the 40 year old gun slinger said, “I’ve done it all, there’s nothing left for me to prove.”  From face value one could argue that he’s right.  He’s the all time leader in passing touchdowns, passing attempts, and passing yards.  He’s won a Super Bowl and been to another.  He has 3 NFL MVP awards and came one game away from a third Super Bowl appearance last season at 40 years old.  He certainly has “done it all”.  You and I are convinced.  But is he?  What’s driving this exuberant football player enthusiast?  Is it his love for the game? Is it NOT ending his career on an interception?  Is it pressure from Ryan Longwell, Jared Allen and the rest of his Vikings teammates?  Or could it be the memory of his late father who died in the middle of Brett’s 2003 season? 

Whatever the motivation, Brett gets to decide, not us.  Fans think like fans.  “He’s too old.”  “He should retire at the top.” “What if he has a bad season?” What if he gets hurt?”  All of these are legitimate concerns but they don’t matter.  In the end, Brett Favre -20 years in the league, all time leader in passing attempts, yards, touchdowns and more, 3-time MVP, Super Bowl champion –this guy gets to decide.  If the guy still loves the game, still has the passion, the physical ability, and the desire, then who are we to make excuses for him?   Sure we’re tired of the circus but what if it was you or I?  I’d love to have played 1 season in the NFL much more 20!  So let’s enjoy it.  Let’s embrace one last time the opportunity to watch a guy who has given us 20 years of great football because whether we want to admit it or not, the NFL will certainly feel a little empty once #4 is no longer playing in it.