Conflicted...and Pissed!

As most of you know, I'm a HUGE Packers fan. But even moreso, a Brett Favre fan. I've bled Green & Gold since the day I was born. So to hear the latest from the saga of the Favre's retiring carousel, I am, to say the least, bothered.

Year after glorious year, I've eagerly anticipated the kickoff of a new season of hope with my Packers. The 95-96 Super Bowl win was a pinnacle moment in my fan-dome. What a feeling to see your team win. It's incredible. I can only imagine what it's like to BE an athlete achieving that very thing.

So now I hear the latest story that he's once again NOT retiring. Despite his tearful press conference. Despite him saying he didn't have the desire anymore. Now it's gone too far. The past 3 seasons or so, Brett's wavered back and forth as to whether or not he's going to return to play another season. The Packers have been more than patient with his antics. Every year he waited until after the draft to decide. Every year he showed up just in time for training camp. '07 was a great year for him...but does everyone remember '06 & '05?! Horrible! Absolutely dreadful.

So now he's said he wants to come back, and wonders why Ted Thompson & Mike McCarthy have not welcomed him with open arms? Really, Brett?! You can only "cry wolf" so many times before you're NOT taken seriously. The Packers have already told Aaron Rogers "you're our guy". Rogers has worked his tail off to get ready to fill the proverbial "big shoes" of Brett Favre. He knew going into this, that it would be a challenge he'd probably never fully live up to. Now Brett comes waltzing back in wanting to take Aaron's job away from him. Still wondering why you're getting the cold shoulder, Brett?! I still say he's coming back because he can't end his career on an interception.

So anyway, now he wants released from the Packers. His agent Buzz Cook notified the team Brett wants to go elsewhere. He's already essentially forced the Packers to take him back since he has 3 years remaining on his contract. So now that he's retired...er, returning, the Packers have to figure out what to do with him. They don't WANT him to play because they have moved on BASED ON BRETT ANNOUNCING HIS RETIREMENT!!! Come on! So now Brett feels he doesn't want to return to an organization where he will get (at best) a luke-warm reception. So he wants released. Gee, sorry the Packers weren't enthusiastic enough for your inflated ego, Brett. So sorry your feelings got hurt. Did you even consider how the Packers organization felt? They are only looking out for what's best for the team. Considering you already told the team you were done. Considering you already told Aaron Rogers "it's all yours now". Considering you turned in the retirement paperwork to the NFL. Seriously, what a "generous" decision to go elsewhere.

Here's what really scares the shit out of me. Who in the NFC North Division alone needs a QB?! Chicago Bears & Minnesota Vikings anyone?! I will literally vomit in my mouth if he EVER wears blue or purple!!! Even Tampa Bay & Atlanta are in need. Guess what, more NFC teams!

So it will be without question, one of the most conflicted seasons of football I've ever experienced. I never, ever suspected this day would come. To see Brett Favre in any color other than Green & Gold. I can't fathom it. Listen, for all Favre & his family have done for the NFL, the community, the fans...for all he's done, I respect him. He seems like a very humble and caring superstar. But I do not understand this behavior from such a stand-up guy. I'll watch him play for another team, quietly hoping he falls on his face. Secretly booing as loud (on the inside) as the rest of the Packers faithful. But deep down inside, I'll remember the Lombardi trophy he brought to Green Bay, and all the years I laughed, cried & cheered under his tenure.

Bon Voyage Brett. It's truly been a journey. But now you're someone else's legend to contend with.