Is it just me or does it seem like the Brett Favre soap opera in Green Bay is becoming rather tiresome? The will he, won’t he saga of one man’s career choice is so redundant that even Michael Jordan is sick to his stomach.
In the past two weeks ESPN’s NFL Live has had so much coverage of the apparent multiple personalities of Middle America’s most popular southern boy that it even overshadowed the arrest of Matt Jones on cocaine possession on today’s show. I guess that giving Favre press is better for the NFL than a player being picked up by police officers while cutting up powder in his sedan, but it’s about time to start focusing on players who actually want to be a part of the whole process in the NFL (mini-camps, preseason two-a-days, all 16 games, etc.). But, even with all of the coverage, there are a few fundamental things that are being completely left out of the discussion.
Does anyone remember the teary-eyed, emotional press-conference that No. 4 issued for his retirement? Or the smorgasbord of apparent shtick that he delivered about his lack of desire to play? If not, see it again below.
“I know I can still play,” Favre explained eyes red with exhaustion and emotion, “I just don’t know if I want to.”
I remember this statement vividly as I watched the press conference live from the comfort of my college apartment. I, like the rest of the free world, was duped into believing that he actually meant the words he uttered in his mucous spraying, tear shedding, most vulnerable state. Alas, he has proven once again that he is not ready to relinquish his status as King of Wisconsin or the popularity that comes with it. No, no, in reality he just didn’t want to deal with the grind that comes with preparing for the season.
Favre’s selfish, unbelievably callow behavior is disgracing his legacy as a very talented, extremely consistent and very headstrong quarterback who, if you’ll remember, razzed wide receiver Javon Walker for skipping preseason workouts during a contract dispute. To me, his actions are even more volatile to the chemistry of the young, talented players on this Packer team.
Imagine how Aaron Rodgers, the Packers third year quarterback, felt about replacing Favre in the first place. Now throw in the fact that he has to field questions about whether the old vet will come back as well as deal with the inner turmoil of being cross-examined by every resident of the dairy capital of the world.
Or, feel for third year coach Mike McCarthy who recently took heat from, get this, children at a Boys and Girls Club of America donation ceremony. There is no reason that he should be responsible for answering for Favre’s antics.
And to think, most of the speculation is coming from Brett’s pals down in Biloxi, Mississippi. I am so sick of hearing these tired old boys from Favre’s hometown creating rumors and speculation. That’s the only thing worse than actually hearing it from the horse’s mouth. Do Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers, the state of Wisconsin and especially yourself a favor Brett. Hang the cleats up for real this time and join Terry Bradshaw on the FOX pre-game show. At least that way you’ll still be able to get your face on TV.
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4 comments:
Word,
Nice piece. Unfortunately, the man cannot handle being alone with himself and needs the lights. I just hope that it doesn't turn out to be the slide to Britneyville.
McCarthy is clearing over $3 mill a year. Rodgers' contract is more complicated, but it's in the millions. I think they're obligated to answer just about anything they're asked, regardless of whether or not they find it annoying. If these questions are too much for them to handle, I wouldn't expect to see them advancing in the playoffs next year.
It would never happen, but I would love to see him in a Bills jersey. Edwards could learn a lot from this guy, though I'm not sure the O-line could protect him to the extent that he needs.
Excellent writing so far. Lata.
Anonymous,
Although his situation is a little different than Britney's, the infamy will be about the same. It's disgusting how the media hounds this situation when there are more important issues within the same sport that fail to be addressed (ie: steroid use, criminal behavior). Thanks for the comment and stay tuned...
Danner, although I agree with you about the superfluous amount of money that these two men get paid to do their jobs, I may remind you that this doesn't exactly fit their job descriptions. McCarthy's job is to find schemes, run plays, and develop chemistry in order to win games. Aaron Rodgers, who has become a little more vocal in the past week about the Favre situation, is having enough trouble coping with the eyes of Wisconsin on his shoulders. I don't know if I would take that amount of money for all of that potential negative publicity.
Favre has become a corrossive element in the makeup of this team, and if he isn't dealt with appropriately soon, the Pack just might pack it in early this season.
I believe Brett Favre might be the most overrated "will he/wont he retire" player in NFL history. He was a great quarterback for many years but why do people continue to want him back and constantly claim they need him? Do they not remember the 29 int's 2 years ago or the lack luster 1:1 TD to INT ratio of 3 years ago? If i had to pick a QB to win me ONE game for all the marbles,Brett Favre is in the bottom third. Let the Aaron Rogers era begin because the Brian Brohm era is only 2 years away.
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