In what has become an annual tradition, Minnesota QB Brett Favre announced recently that he has reconsidered retirement and is coming back to play.
Conveniently his announcement came (as it did last year) at the conclusion of training camp - which is widely recognized as the most grueling portion of the football calendar.
As a public figure, few dominate the public sphere as much as Favre does. The media's adoration of the aging quarterback is unparalleled and has thus contributed to his 'legendary' status amongst the NFL's quarterback fraternity. However, before we finalize plans for a gold statue, let's take a look beyond the sports media love-in at Favre's true credentials.
It is obvious that Favre will finish with most of the NFL's passing records by the time that his career has finished. However, most of these records can be attributed to longevity as opposed to what he has actually been given credit for.
For those who watch football once or twice a year, Favre is known as a gunslinger who plays his best when the games matter the most.
However, closer examination reveals that the opposite is true. Brett Favre's last pass as a Green Bay Packer was an ill-advised overtime interception in the NFC Championship game, allowing the New York Giants to reach the Super Bowl.
Brett Favre's final pass of last season was an ill-advised interception at the end of regulation in the NFC Championship game, allowing the New Orleans Saints to reach the Super Bowl.
In fact, Favre's one and only Super Bowl was won in 1997, thirteen years ago. He wasn't even the MVP of that game, an honour typically bestowed on the winning quarterback by default. The distinction was given to kick returner Desmond Howard.
It is impossible to determine how a reputation is created and why it endures. Peyton Manning has won a Super Bowl and is on pace to encompass most of Favre's records, however he is still saddled with the reputation of being a 'loser' when it counts.
Favre's reputation and round-the-clock attention is as undeserved as it is nauseating. Is this there a better QB at staying healthy? Probably not. Just don't expect a glowing review from me when this season concludes with another annual Favre tradition - an interception at the worst possible time.
