Brett Favre retires after 17 seasons
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GREEN BAY — After flirting with retirement for years, Brett Favre means it this time. The Green Bay Packers quarterback quit after a 17-season career in which he dazzled fans with his grit, heart and rocket of an arm.
“I know I can still play, but it’s like I told my wife, I’m just tired mentally. I’m just tired,” Favre told ESPN’s Chris Mortensen in a voice mail message.
Tuesday’s surprise move comes after the 38-year-old three-time MVP set several league records, including most career touchdown passes, in one of his most successful seasons.
Favre’s agent, Bus Cook, said the quarterback told him of his decision Monday night.
“Nobody pushed Brett Favre out the door, but then nobody encouraged him not to go out that door, either,” Cook said by phone from his Hattiesburg, Miss., office.
Packers general manager Ted Thompson thanked Favre for 16 years of wonderful memories with the team.
“He has had one of the greatest careers in the history of the National Football League, and he is able to walk away from the game on his own terms – not many players are able to do that,” Thompson said in a statement.
The team scheduled an afternoon news conference with Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy, and said it was unsure when Favre might address the media.
Favre led the Packers to the NFC championship game in January, but his interception in overtime set up the New York Giants’ winning field goal.
“If I felt like coming back – and Deanna (Favre’s wife) and I talked about this – the only way for me to be successful would be to win a Super Bowl,” Favre told ESPN. “To go to the Super Bowl and lose, would almost be worse than anything else. Anything less than a Super Bowl win would be unsuccessful.”
The news was a surprise to teammates.
“I just saw it come across the TV,” Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson said, when reached on his cell phone by The Associated Press.
Added Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle: “For 16 years, Brett Favre brought fun and excitement to Lambeau Field. His talent, energy and enthusiasm for the game will be missed.”
Last season, Favre broke Dan Marino’s career records for most touchdown passes and most yards passing and John Elway’s record for most career victories by a starting quarterback.
He retires with 5,377 career completions in 8,758 attempts for 61,655 yards, 442 touchdowns and 288 interceptions.
In his final season, Favre also extended his quarterback-record streak of consecutive regular-season starts to 253 games – illustrating his trademark toughness. Add the playoffs, and Favre’s streak stands at 275.
In the past several offseasons, Favre’s indecision about his football future became a winter tradition in Wisconsin, with Cheeseheads hanging on his every word.
Unlike after the 2006 season – when Favre choked up in a television interview as he walked off the field in Chicago, only to return once again – nearly everyone assumed he would be back next season.
It was a remarkable turnaround from 2005, Favre’s final season under former head coach Mike Sherman, when he threw a career-worst 29 interceptions as the Packers went 4-12.
Surrounded by an underrated group of wide receivers who proved hard to tackle after the catch, Favre had a career-high completion percentage of 66.5. He threw for 4,155 yards, 28 touchdowns and only 15 interceptions.
Before the Packers’ Jan. 12 divisional playoff game against Seattle, Favre told his hometown newspaper that he wasn’t approaching the game as if it would be his last and was more optimistic than in years past about returning.
“For the first time in three years, I haven’t thought this could be my last game,” Favre told the Biloxi (Miss.) Sun Herald. “I would like to continue longer.”
But Favre finished the season on a sour note, struggling in subzero temperatures in a 23-20 overtime loss to the New York Giants in the NFC championship game.
Afterward, Favre was noncommittal on his future. McCarthy said he wanted Favre to take a step back from the season before making a decision.
Now he has – to walk away.
“The Packers owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude,” Thompson said. “The uniqueness of Brett Favre his personality, charisma and love of the game – undoubtedly will leave him as one of the enduring figures in NFL history.”
Associated Press Writer Ron Harrist in Jackson, Miss., contributed to this report.
Click here to read statement from Green Bay Packers GM Ted Thompson
Click here to view an audio slideshow of Favre's career
Local fans' reaction
Local Packer fans reacted this morning to news that Brett Favre is retiring:
“He’s earned it, but we’ll miss him. He’s excitement.”—Darrel Boschma, Janesville
“He ought to go out when he’s on top. But I’ll miss him.”—Delores Garves, Janesville
“It’s kind of ironic it came out today as far as it being March 4, as far as it being his number. It’s a sad day. It’s hard to believe he’s actually going to retire after all this time.
“He went out on a high note. He had a great career. He didn’t have anything else to proof. He’s probably the most recognized quarterback in NFL history and probably the most liked.
“Now, we’ll find out how Aaron Rodgers does and see what we do in draft pick. It’s a very positive (outlook).”—Mike Saxer, Janesville
“I was sure sad to hear that. I thought he had another year. He did his bit. He’s definitely served us well.”—Steve Sparhawk, Janesville
“I thought he had one more year in him.”—Deb Reid, Janesville
“I would have liked to see him play for a few more years.”—Brenda Fitzmaurice, Janesville
“I thought he’d come back. He had a young team. What are you going to do? We have a nice team, a good general manager, a good coaching staff, and luckily Aaron Rodgers will be into his third year of experience. I would suspect they would probably be looking for a veteran-type quarterback.
“I’m not heartbroken about it, but I do feel bad. I think he still has some solid football left in him. I think he will regret it. I certainly wish him the best in the rest of his personal life.”—Bill Neumann, Janesville
“I’m going to fly my (Packer) flag at half mast. I almost wanted to cry. I guess I was kind of shocked because I thought he had such a good time last year that I really expected him to come back.”—Barb Shull, Clinton
Reaction to Brett Favre’s retirement
Here’s some of the reaction Tuesday to the news that Brett Favre is retiring after 17 seasons in the NFL:
Seahawks Head Coach Mike Holmgren:
"Brett's career accomplishments will be measured among the greats of the game for the balance of time. He truly was as gifted a player as I have ever seen, and as proud and amazed as I am of what Brett has accomplished on the playing field. The thing that impresses me the most is what kind of a man and leader he has become off the field since I have known him. I have taken great joy in watching him develop as a person and father — perhaps even more so — than as a coach watching his quarterback."
Bears coach Lovie Smith:
"I think this announcement comes about 17 years too late and I don't know if I will completely believe it until Green Bay opens the season without No. 4 lining up under center. In all seriousness, no one has given more to our game than Brett Favre. I have spent the better part of my NFL coaching career working on game plans to beat him. There is no player I respect more. He is one of the all-time greats to ever play in the NFL. He was a tremendous leader and the ultimate competitor on Sundays. I wish him and his family the very best."
Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell, who spent three years as Packers quality control, then three years as the team's quarterbacks coach:
"There's a lot you could say about his playing career, but everybody will say those things. ... I was able to have insight into the other side of him — what a great guy he is, how he treated players, how great he was to be around."
"Brett Favre is a competitive guy ... He knew I had his best interests in mind. I'm not going to say that there weren't some run-ins, but he was all ears, and he was always willing to listen."
Marv Levy, Pro Football Hall of Fame coach, who stepped down after two years as Buffalo Bills general manager after last season:
"He was the prototypical gunslinger type. He's the type of guy where, 'Oh, what's he throwing into that crowd for?' But he had intuition, toughness, resilience. It helped to have a good cast around him, which he often did. Those are all qualities which good quarterbacks have."
Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong:
"If people say to me, 'Who are the athletes you respect the most?' I would tell you that I respect Andre Agassi and Brett Favre the most because they were guys that played through pain, played through misery."
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle:
"I've said many times it's a lot easier to govern this state when the Packers are winning than when they're losing. And with Brett Favre, they have won a lot more than they have lost, and they have done it with great style."
Brett Favre's brother, Scott Favre:
"He just felt like it was time to go out. He's been lucky. He's been injury free, and it's time to go out on top. Basically, you know he didn't win a Super Bowl (this year), but he went out playing good. And that's probably a peace of mind for him to show people that he could still play when people thought he was done."
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer:
"As a fellow player, I have nothing but the utmost respect for Brett. He's one of the quarterbacks I watched a lot and really looked up to as a young teenager and through college. As great a passer as he was, the thing I really admired was his toughness. His record for most consecutive starts will never be broken. It's one of the most amazing records in sports. I guarantee you, he gets an immense amount of respect from every quarterback in the NFL for that record."
Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, confused her quarterbacks during a Senate floor session in the state Capitol on Tuesday. She asked the body to adjourn in honor of all its constituents mourning Bart Starr's retirement. After a moment, she caught herself and corrected, "Brett Favre."
Starr quarterbacked the Packers during the 1960s and led the team to its first two Super Bowl victories.
Brett Favre’s career records:
Most Touchdown Passes, Career
442 Brett Favre
420 Dan Marino
342 Fran Tarkenton
Most Yards Passing Gained, Career
61,655 Brett Favre
61,361 Dan Marino
51,475 John Elway
Most Passes Completed, Career
5,377 Brett Favre
4,967 Dan Marino
4,123 John Elway
Most Passes Attempted, Career
8,758 Brett Favre
8,358 Dan Marino
7,250 John Elway
Most Seasons, 3,000 or More Yards Passing
16 Brett Favre
13 Dan Marino
12 John Elway
Most Passes Had Intercepted, Career
288 Brett Favre
277 George Blanda
268 John Hadl
Favre’s memorable moments
Here are some memorable moments from Brett Favre’s career:
–Sept. 13, 1992, at Tampa Bay. Favre completes his first NFL pass – to himself. A deflected pass lands in Favre’s hands, and he is tackled for a 7-yard loss. Favre completes eight of 14 passes for 73 yards.
–Sept. 20, 1992, vs. Cincinnati at Lambeau Field. Replaces injured starter Don Majkowski in the first quarter, and never looks back. Favre leads two scoring drives in the final eight minutes of the game. His 35-yard touchdown pass to Kitrick Taylor with 13 seconds remaining gives the Packers a come-from-behind 24-23 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
–Nov. 15, 1992, vs. Philadelphia in Milwaukee. Despite sustaining a first-degree separation of his left shoulder early in the game, Favre leads the Packers to a come-from-behind 27-24 victory. Reggie White, then a defensive end for the Eagles, would later say the toughness Favre showed was a factor in his decision to sign with Green Bay as a free agent in the offseason.
–Jan. 8, 1994, at Detroit. With the Packers trailing 24-21 in the final minute of a Wild Card playoff game, Favre rolls to his left and throws across his body, completing a 40-yard pass to Sterling Sharpe on the other side of the field with 55 seconds remaining to give the Packers a 28-24 victory.
–Oct. 31, 1994, at Chicago. Playing with a severely bruised hip in a driving rainstorm at Soldier Field, Favre rushes for a career-high 58 yards – including a 36-yard touchdown in the second quarter when Favre leaped over a Bears defender – and leads the Packers to a 33-6 victory.
–Dec. 18, 1994, vs. Atlanta in Milwaukee. With the Packers needing a victory to keep their playoff chances alive, Favre’s diving 9-yard touchdown run with 14 seconds left gives the Packers a 21-17 victory over the Falcons in the final football game at County Stadium.
–Sept. 11, 1995, at Chicago. Favre throws a 99-yard touchdown pass to Robert Brooks – becoming only the eighth QB in league history to do so – and the Packers beat the Bears 27-24.
–Nov. 12, 1995, vs. Chicago at Lambeau. Playing with a severely sprained left ankle that forced him to the bench in the previous week’s game at Minnesota and would eventually require offseason surgery, Favre throws five touchdown passes in a 35-28 victory over the Bears.
–Dec. 24, 1995, vs. Pittsburgh at Lambeau. Favre rolls out and is hit hard by three Steelers defenders, forcing the Packers to call timeout and sending Favre to the sidelines coughing up blood. He returns to throw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Mark Chmura on the next play. The Packers’ 24-19 victory clinches the division title.
–Jan. 6, 1996, at San Francisco. Favre completes 21 of 28 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns as the Packers knock the defending Super Bowl champion 49ers out of the playoffs with a 27-17 victory.
–Jan. 4, 1997, vs. San Francisco at Lambeau. Playing in rough weather conditions, Favre completes only 11 of 15 passes for 79 yards, but the Packers roll to a 35-14 playoff victory over the 49ers.
–Jan. 12, 1997, vs. Carolina at Lambeau Field. Favre is 19-of-29 for 292 yards in the Packers’ NFC Championship game victory over the Panthers, 30-13.
–Jan. 26, 1997. In Super Bowl XXXI at the Louisiana Superdome, Favre is 14-of-27 for 246 yards and no interceptions to beat the New England Patriots 35-21 – the Packers’ first championship in 29 years. Favre throws a 54-yard touchdown pass to Andre Rison on his first throw of the game. Later, he throws a Super Bowl-record 81-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Freeman.
–Jan. 11, 1998, at San Francisco. Trudging through the mud in sloppy San Francisco, Favre is 16-of-27 for 222 yards and a touchdown as the Packers beat the 49ers 23-10 to advance to the Super Bowl for the second straight season, where they lose to the Denver Broncos 31-24.
–Dec. 3, 2001, at Jacksonville. Favre throws for 362 yards and three touchdowns, but wins with his feet. Favre’s 6-yard touchdown run with 1:30 remaining – his first rushing touchdown in three years – gives the Packers a come-from-behind 28-21 victory.
–Nov. 2, 2003, at Minnesota. One game after breaking the thumb on his right hand, Favre throws three touchdowns in a 30-27 victory over the Vikings.
–Dec. 22, 2003, at Oakland. Playing on Monday Night Football the day after his father, Irvin, died, Favre is 22-of-30 for 399 yards and four touchdowns as the Packers beat the Oakland Raiders 41-7.
–Jan. 4, 2004, at Lambeau. Favre throws for 319 yards to get the Packers to overtime, and Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck – Favre’s former understudy – proclaims after the coin flip that “We want the ball and we’re gonna score!” They don’t. Hasselbeck throws an interception that is returned for a touchdown and the Packers win 33-27 in overtime.
–Nov. 14, 2004, vs. Minnesota at Lambeau Field. Favre throws four touchdown passes in a game for the 18th time in his career, but the Vikings rally to tie the game with 1:20 remaining. Favre drives the Packers to a last-second field goal and a 34-31 victory.
–Dec. 31, 2006, at Chicago. Favre throws for 285 yards and a touchdown a 26-7 victory over the Bears, the No. 1 playoff seed in the NFC. Favre gets choked up in a television interview after the game, leading some to believe he had played his final game. But after once again mulling retirement, he decides to return.
–Sept. 30, 2007, at Minnesota. Favre throws his record-breaking 421st career touchdown pass to Greg Jennings, breaking Dan Marino’s career record in a 23-16 victory.
–Oct. 29, 2007 at Denver. Favre throws an 82-yard touchdown to Greg Jennings on the first play from scrimmage in overtime, leading the Packers to a 19-13 victory.
–Jan. 12, 2008 vs. Seattle at Lambeau. Favre frolics in heavy snow showers, hitting on three touchdown passes – and hitting wide receiver Donald Driver with a snowball in a 42-20 Packers playoff romp.
–Jan. 20, 2008 vs. New York Giants at Lambeau. Aside from a 90-yard touchdown to wide receiver Donald Driver, Favre generally struggles in subzero temperatures in the NFC Championship game. His interception in overtime sets up the Giants’ game-winning field goal, and the Packers lose 23-20.
BIO
NAME: Brett Lorenzo Favre.
AGE: 38.
BORN: Oct. 10, 1969, Gulfport, Miss.
RAISED: Kiln, Miss.
RESIDES: Hattiesburg, Miss.
FAMILY: Wife, Deanna; children, Brittany and Breleigh.
COLLEGE: Southern Mississippi.
NFL DEBUT: Atlanta Falcons, Oct. 27, 1991 vs. L.A. Rams.
CAME TO PACKERS: Traded to Packers Feb. 10, 1992, for 17th overall pick in 1992 draft. Falcons trade the pick to Dallas, which selects cornerback Kevin Smith. Falcons acquire two picks from Dallas, selecting running back Tony Smith and cornerback Frankie Smith.
PACKERS CAREER: Favre led the Packers to a 35-21 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXI, the team’s first championship in 29 years.
Favre and the Packers returned to the Super Bowl the following season, but lost to the Denver Broncos 31-24.
Favre set several records during the 2007 season, including most career touchdown passes, most career victories by a starting quarterback and most career yards passing.
Favre has started 253 consecutive games, a record for NFL quarterbacks. Including playoff games, the streak stands at 275.
His career has been marked by some off-the-field troubles.
He battled an addiction to painkillers, spending time in the Menninger Clinic in Topeka, Kan., in 1996. His father, Irvin, died suddenly in December 2003 – and Favre memorably threw for 399 yards and four touchdowns in a victory over the Raiders the following day.
His wife, Deanna, has survived breast cancer and mourned the death of her brother in an all-terrain vehicle accident. And several members of Favre’s family in Mississippi were displaced in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
AWARDS: Favre has won a record three league MVP awards, in 1995, ‘96 and ’97; shared the ’97 award with Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders. He is a nine-time Pro Bowl selection.
PERSONAL: Owns a 460-acre ranch in Hattiesburg, Miss. ... Made a cameo appearance in the 1998 hit movie “There’s Something About Mary.” ... Served as a pallbearer at the funeral for former teammate Reggie White, Dec. 30, 2004. ... Avid golfer and fisherman. ... The Brett Favre Fourward Foundation raises money for disabled or disadvantaged children.
Mar 13, 2008 at 3:18 a.m.
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WAY TO TWIST IT ALL AROUND. THE SCREWED UP PEOPLE ARE THE RELIGIOUS ONES. I AM JUST A HUGE, RESPECTFUL FAN OF BRETT FAVRE. NO ONE HAS TO BE A BRETT FAVRE FAN. AND IF YOU NEVER KNEW ONE, NOW YOU DO. BUT HAVE DECENCY FOR CHRIST SAKE. I HATE ANNOYING PEOPLE. YOU ALL MAKE ME SICK.
GO PACK!
Mar 13, 2008 at 3:06 a.m.
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I wasn't totally pointing out every negative comment, I was only saying it to those who bash a man who could, remember could, could be one of the greatest NFL players of all-time. Everyone does have a right to an opinion. Problem is, is there is no respect towards Brett Favre. Also, if everyone has the right to an opinion, than I guess I get one as well. And yes, CHURCH SUCKS, PACKERS RULE, they are my religion, and thats my right as an AMERICAN. And of course I predict Green Bay winning the NFC NORTH in 2008. So all you little Bear, ViQueen, and Lion fans, need to start thinking about 2009 already. Oh and Whatdidyousay?, (Non-Packer Fan) Your opinion is greatly appreciated, but voided out. Not everyone has to watch football or consider it important, but, I wish if people have a comment or opinion about something football related, that they actually know something about football period. Not just an annoying person who comments on everything to get a rise out of people. Also,I do respect the knowledgable negative comments made, and I agree with all the positive comments made. And again, thats my opinion, something I still have and no-one can take away. And no-one can take it away from any of you.
I just thought is was ghastly what people were saying about Brett Favre, that is all. I tried to explain it my way.
I hope people still read the article.
Go Pack!
Mar 6, 2008 at 8:07 a.m.
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etowntomilton: thank you!
Mar 5, 2008 at 10:38 p.m.
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Brett has earned the respect of many who know him and have played with him , the respect of the many that have watched him do his job all these years, and a wonderful way he did it. And now he chooses to retire has created a frenzey of dislikes and likes that have complete strangers wanting to fight has anyone really put any thought into what they are saying and doing all because 1 person has decided to quit his job. Think about it he is no different than anyone else. So why must we act like this. Lets all just let him have his peace & family life he had on hold for 17 years.
Mar 5, 2008 at 9:25 p.m.
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I agree with you Darius, have you ever seen any of their Packer alters?? It's a sick kind of obsession. Maybe with him gone some of them will get back to reality. It's a sad state when people pick someone like Favre to be their hero.
Mar 5, 2008 at 8:41 p.m.
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darling_menace - did it occur to you that maybe benthinkin was talking about you and your unkind words about Favre?
Seems like you're in the middle of calling the kettle black.
Mar 5, 2008 at 7:44 p.m.
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"AND PEOPLE WONDER WHY OUR SOCIETY IS SO SCREWED UP! I REST MY CASE!"
Believing or not believing in god has nothing to do with why our society is so screwed up. Don't forget 80+% of Janesville residents in the 2000 census reported being "Christian"...
Mar 5, 2008 at 7:23 p.m.
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snazzyj1977 says: "I watch the Packers religiously. They are my religion. I do not go to church on Sunday, I watch the Packers. So in a way, my "God" has retired. I could go on about how great he is and was."
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AND PEOPLE WONDER WHY OUR SOCIETY IS SO SCREWED UP! I REST MY CASE!
Mar 5, 2008 at 7:19 p.m.
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You know what's really sad? There are people out there in society that actually believe that Brett Favre is a huge part of their life! It's laughable! Some of these people don't even give their own children as much regard as they do Favre! This isn't a knock on Favre. I loved to watch this guy do his thing on the field and he did it with style, however, my life isn't over now because he's decided to hang up the cleats!! Take a deep breath Packer fans..... life does go on!
Mar 5, 2008 at 6:47 p.m.
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benthinkin
Thank you for your kind words.
TammyK could learn a thing or two from you.
Mar 5, 2008 at 6:34 p.m.
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There is an old saying that fits perfect here...
There are two ways to make yourself look better,
one is to raise yourself up through hard work and effort.
The other is to knock those around you down.
Mar 5, 2008 at 2:15 p.m.
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darling_menace: Zip it!
Mar 5, 2008 at 12:17 p.m.
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Boo Hoo Moving on now...
Mar 5, 2008 at 11:56 a.m.
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Brett Favre should have retired the first time he shot his big mouth off about it. He would have saved alot of people alot of pain.
He is a hero to no one and a loser to many!
Mar 5, 2008 at 11:41 a.m.
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I am a Chicago Bears Fan and I do know that Brett did a fantastic job as quarterback and will be greatly missed. He has accomplished a lot in his career. Maybe he’ll decide to become coach of the offensive team to help keep the spirit of the game with the team. No one has any justice in denying this man the honor he so deserves. Good luck to you Brett!
Mar 5, 2008 at 10:25 a.m.
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I want to know if all the people who left a negative comment below, actually read the article above? Probably not. Read it. Maybe you need a lesson in greatness.
Brett Favre 4 Ever!
Everyone wanted him, Nobody could have him.
We will see how bad you all think he is in 2013. Where he's inducted into the Pro Football Hall Of Fame in Canton, OH!
They must just give that away now-a-days.
Pure ignorance. Pure ignorance.
Mar 5, 2008 at 10:18 a.m.
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No matter what anyone says and what anyone thinks, if your a true, and I mean true, football fan, you would understand why this is a big deal. In my opinion, this is huge news. I watch the Packers religiously. They are my religion. I do not go to church on Sunday, I watch the Packers. So in a way, my "God" has retired. I could go on about how great he is and was. Everyone has a positive and a negative comment to say. That is fine, that is the opinions of what they think. We will all get over this, and there will be another QB in Green Bay, and there will be another game to play in September. With or without Favre. Bottom line is, people who say shut up, don't make a big deal out of this, need to shut up. It is a huge deal to people who actually watch the Packers or Pro football in general. If you don't, shut up. Its about respect, respect for one of the greatest NFL players of all time. So to the people who think this is overdone? Shut Up. Read about something else, watch something else. Stay out of our way. If your not fan, don't comment.
Mar 5, 2008 at 9:54 a.m.
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ramstud: In Brett's defense, could you imagine the hysteria if he did show up to camps like that. Brett and Deanna donate more to charity in a year than most of us combined on this site do in a lifetime. He has his charity softball game each year that he donates back to kids in Wisconsin and Mississippi. The fee he assigns to autographing an item (usually about $125 for an 8x10 all the way up to about $300-$500 for a jersey) does NOT go in Brett's pocket. It goes to the Fourward Foundation. Don't know what it is? Gooogle it. I've met and had lengthy conversations with many of Brett's former and current teammates. Not one of them has ever done anything other than sing his praises. Besides, if the camp is run by William Henderson, would it not be unjust for Brett (or any player) to steal the limelight from him. Brett, on a bad day, is a better person than most on their very best day.
Mar 5, 2008 at 9:28 a.m.
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Good luck Farve , My whole family will miss watching you . You are a true hero in lots of peoples eyes . You have been a great role model to lots and lots of kids ! Thank you for that !
Best of luck !
Mar 5, 2008 at 9:09 a.m.
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Favre played with dignity, skill and pure love for the game. He was a thrill to watch and he will be missed. Good-bye to a true legend!
Mar 5, 2008 at 8:34 a.m.
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I can't believe this story generated so much anger on this board. If you don't care that he retired or think he was overrated, why do you take the time to come here and provoke the people who wanted to recall him fondly?
Does anybody remember Ghostbusters 2? Is there slime coming up from the ground there in Janesville?
Mar 5, 2008 at 1:41 a.m.
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and stay in retirement don`t come back
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:51 p.m.
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Its about time. Thanks for making football popular in wisconsin. These "Packer fans" didnt even know what a football looked like 16 years ago.... They wont even go .500 next year.
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:34 p.m.
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He does no more than any of the other guys on the field in fact less, I no first hand he never showed up at packers youth football camp that is held every year and ran by William Henderson for 8 years. Not once could he find the time to show up for those kids so get off your high horse thinking he is such a wonderful Man . Just Average Joe
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:32 p.m.
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Thanks Brett for 17 great seasons and 275 consecutive games! You are the best thing that has ever happened to Packer fans and you always will be. Thank you for 17 awesome years and good luck Brett. We love you
The Greatest Quarterback Ever Brett Favre
Mar 4, 2008 at 8:35 p.m.
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mymaro: I heart you! lol And, yes, his softball game is AMAZING.
Mar 4, 2008 at 8:06 p.m.
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cardtrader, Brett will NEVER be a distant memory. He will always be remembered, and rightfully so. and to call him a "headline hunter" is just plain IGNORANT. How many professional athletes are willing to REDUCE their salary to help their team? Cant think of ANY except Brett. He didnt hunt the headlines the MEDIA hunted him. and what about all of his charity activities? Have you ever been to his charity softball game? Probably not. Its a great experience and raises alot of money for his charity and others. Your jealousy is PATHETIC. Give the man the respect he deserves.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:56 p.m.
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For those of you who think Brett is over-rated and despise the man: click on the below link, click on Jared's homepage and look for a blog entry from around Dec 8th. Keep in mind Brett and Deanna then sent flowers to this family. Brett Favre is a better person OFF the field than many of can only hope to be.
http://gazettextra.com/weblogs/e-life-du...
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:51 p.m.
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cardtrader: I hope you are right. But, I do not think Rodgers will be embraced by the fans as much as Favre was. I could be wrong... And, of course, this is assuming he will be able to play more than 1 consecutive game without getting hurt and being out the next week. Nonetheless, it's been a helluva ride and Brett deserves this retirement.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:21 p.m.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:09 p.m.
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Aaron Rodgers will step right in and do a fine job for the Packers, In no time Brett will be a distant memory.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:04 p.m.
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Brett may throw his hat into the ring and run for President now. He's better than any of the choices we have now.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:03 p.m.
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Thank God The King has Left Lambeau!!!!
The Headline Hunter has finally retired.
Mar 4, 2008 at 7:01 p.m.
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To those that don't get it think of this...
Yes it is just a game and yes there are more critical and important things going on in the world.
However, what Brett and the Packers did was to give us a break from all of that...for just a few hours a week.
People wearing green and gold were no longer stood apart as individuals, we were team, not the packers, but a team of individuals who on a daily basis may not speak, might pull an aggressive driving tactic on another, and on and on but not on Sunday when there was another Packer fan around.
There was a rally around those in green and gold. We supported each other and joked around, had parties together, and shared with strangers.
Game, ya it's just a game and yet all of this happened because of the game.
...and Brett was our anchor for 16 seasons.
Mar 4, 2008 at 6:44 p.m.
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How many people died in Iraq today and were worried about Brett boy!
Mar 4, 2008 at 6:14 p.m.
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we wont be hearing Bretts name every week anymore, true. But we also wont here "superbowl champion chicago bears" anytime soon either.
Mar 4, 2008 at 6:09 p.m.
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janesvillereader, your name includes reader and i assume you can read but can you do math? Well if you cant, which i think is true, ill do it for you. Favres interception percentage is 3% over his entire career. That is the SAME as Marino, Elway, and Aikman. and BETTER than Bradshaw, Tarkenton, Namath, and Moon to name a few.
and getting past the ignorant people i would like to say THANK YOU BRETT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! there will never be another one like you.
Mar 4, 2008 at 6:08 p.m.
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Tammmyk:
Here's a quick quiz for you. In which European language do you find the pronunciation of two adjacent consonants reversed. Ready . . . tick . . . tick . . . tick . . . buzz! That's right, none!
As for your cockamamie theory about French pronunciation, as it happens, I speak a bit of French, learned from Quebecers, practiced in France, the Caribbean, and New Orleans. The French do NOT reverse the pronunciation of R and V. Here's an example the GMers should appreciate. How do you pronounce "Chevrolet", which is coincidentally named after a Frenchman. Did you say "Cherrvv-ro-let"? Probably not.
I read another theory that his family always pronounced it "Far-ve", but an early sports announcer got it wrong, and Brett never bothered to correct him, probably fearing a backlash. Whatever the case, wrong is wrong. At least, we won't hear it pronounced wrong many times every weekend any more!
Mar 4, 2008 at 5:46 p.m.
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I understand that to the state of WI it's the end of an era, but it's not the end of the world!
Get a grip and let the guy enjoy his retirement. Half the people i've talked to act like it's been declared a day of national mourning!
Favre is a great player and i'll give credit where credit is due but we've all seen this coming for the past couple years. Life will go on in Green Bay and Favre will be remembered. In the mean time, let's blow our noses and hope the "new guy" can fill those big shoes.
Mar 4, 2008 at 5:43 p.m.
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I ... don't ... get it.
I know I'm in for it for saying so, but excuse me, I just don't.
So if you'd all like to explain it to me -- without calling me nasty names -- I'll be reading.
Mar 4, 2008 at 5:24 p.m.
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shorty7187: Even though you are a Bears fan, that was a very nice post.
Mar 4, 2008 at 5:23 p.m.
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tammyk1017: way to go!
Mar 4, 2008 at 4:59 p.m.
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janesvillereader...why don't you try out for the team if you think it's so easy?
Mar 4, 2008 at 4:57 p.m.
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Northman, did it ever occur to you that after 17 years in the NFL, if everyone -- including teammates, coaches, sportscasters and FAMILY -- were pronouncing his name incorrectly, he'd have said something by now? The correct pronunciation is FARVE. Here's an excerpt from a message board (not written by me) on another website from several years ago:
His name is pronounced FARVE and spelled Favre. Gotta understand, he's from Louisiana, as in a lot of creole and french names. His name is an american pronunciation of a French name. The r isn't in front in the absolute correct way to say it, but the French swallow their r's so its the closest we can come with our ( american english ) natural pronunciation pattern.
Mar 4, 2008 at 4:54 p.m.
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Why did the news have to break into the Dr Phil show to announce Brett farve was leaving. LIke hes that important. They could of waited till the 5oclock news was on. And isnt this like the 3 time he said he was going to retire.I hope the next one can throw better. without throeing interceptions.....
Mar 4, 2008 at 4:18 p.m.
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As a rabid Bears fan dating back to the Butkus era, I can only say . . . goodbye and good luck to a worthy adversary! It's too bad the guy didn't even know how to pronounce his own name though. That's right, sports fans, it's supposed to be "FAYYY-VERRR". The Bears QBs have their problems, but at least nobody says "Grommsan", "Otron", or "ManMachon".
Mar 4, 2008 at 3:23 p.m.
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I am a Chicago Bears fan but I am still very sad to see Brett Favre retire. No matter how big the rivalry is between the Bears and Packers I have always respected and admired Brett Favre. He is one of the greats. Congrats on a great career Brett!!
Mar 4, 2008 at 3:11 p.m.
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jax4gb ~ Yours is The Best Comment, you said it All.
Thanks to Brett Favre for being someone to look up to, as there are not too many hero's left anymore.
I'll always be a Packer fan, and I love Wisconsin.
Mar 4, 2008 at 2:21 p.m.
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Best ever.
Mar 4, 2008 at 12:42 p.m.
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scribe: point well taken....especially on giving Rodgers a chance. But, one must admit that the Packers organization did not align Favre with the talent he's been asking for. Two words: Randy Moss. I would speculate that is what Bus Cook was referring to; not Ted Thompson calling Brett and beggin him and "woo'ing" him. But instead his great knack of mediocore--dare I say lack luster--draft picks and free agency retentions.
Mar 4, 2008 at 12:15 p.m.
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If anybody thinks Ted Thompson is to blame for Favre's retirement, they're nuts. I'm as much a fan of No. 4 as anybody, but where is it written that the GM must "beg" anybody to come back, which didn't happen according to his agent? In the grand scheme of things, Favre was a player, not a coach, not an executive, and certainly not the GM. It was his job to play, and it wasn't TT's to call him and woo him back. I loved watching him. He gave us all great memories, but the sun will rise again, hopefully tomorrow (depending on this great Wisconsin winter we're having). Give Rodgers a chance. ... think back to 17 years ago when an unknown kid whose name was spelled "Farve" by many stepped onto the Lambeau Field turf for the first time. You never know how things will turn out!
Mar 4, 2008 at 11:43 a.m.
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I think we can thank Ted Thompson for this. Like Bus Cook said, no one forced Brett out the door, but no one asked him to stay either. Brett was one of the last of Ron Wolfe's "guys" and Ted Thompson wants "his" own team. Good luck, Ted and thanks for the memories and a helluva season Brett!
Mar 4, 2008 at 11:26 a.m.
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"Why are you clowns thanking Brett Favre on the Janesville Gazette website. Do you think he really logs on and reads this?"
My thoughts, exactly!
Mar 4, 2008 at 11:03 a.m.
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My heart is sad right now, but I'm so happy that Brett is physically able to walk away from the game without a career ending injury. That honestly has been my fear for him for the last few years.
I'm happy that he'll have time now to be with his family & help others thru the Brett Favre Fourward & Deanna's Breast Cancer fundraising. Think of all the lives that they'll continue to help.
My husband & I will be heading to Fan Fest on Friday in Green Bay. We'll see what other fans think of this historic day.
We got to see Brett play his last two games this year at Lambeau & while the last one didn't end the way that we wanted, I am glad to be able to say that we were there.
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:55 a.m.
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No doubt Brett will be missed he sure was an exciting player to watch. Fans could never count the Pack out since you never knew what Brett would have up his sleeve. He was fun to watch and I will certainly miss watching him play.
Brett will always be a hero to Packer fans...We'll see him in Canton!
Congratulations Brett we'll miss you on the field!
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:44 a.m.
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THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU BRET BRET BRET!!!! You are with us all in spirit. And always will be. Will all sarcasim aside, it is a bit sad to see him make this decision, but it is great for him to go out while he was still at his best, and now he can live life for Bret and his family. It will be interesting to see if we get Randy Moss now?? And, yes there are other football teams, but if I am not mistaken the Packers are the only one in Wisconsin??!! And I do believe that the Janesville Gazette is located in Wisconsin! Too bad he is leaving, but now it is time to let a new talent shine, and have their time of their life....good luck Packers.
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:09 a.m.
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I just read the bulletin from Thompson. It is true and I feel lousy about it. Brett, thanks for always giving us 100 percent! I know this is selfish of me, but I always hoped this day would never come. We love you!
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:01 a.m.
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17 seasons and 275 consecutive games! Goodbye Brett and good luck you gave us everything for 17 years and you are the best there is,the best there was,and the best there ever will be!
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:51 a.m.
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Thanks for a great career, great memories, and always playing the game the way it was meant to be played.
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:49 a.m.
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Brett gone. Thank You For The memories and you
deserve to do what you want and you will be missed. Have a great retierment and STAY SAFE!!!
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:43 a.m.
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So we support a team..get over it and move on with your day. Thanks for the memories Brett!
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:40 a.m.
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This is a sad day in Wisconsin. But thanks Brett for a great 16 seasons!
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:35 a.m.
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I felt a great disturbance in the Force, as if millions of voices suddenly cried out in terror and were suddenly silenced. I fear something terrible has happened.
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:34 a.m.
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Not if you're a Packer fan.
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:27 a.m.
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OH BOO HOO! THERE ARE OTHER FOOTBALL TEAMS THAN THE PACKERS GET A LIFE!
Mar 4, 2008 at 9:11 a.m.
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It's a sad day for Packer fans.
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