Is NFL's Ironman finished?

By Brian Witter

The end of the NFL regular season is always marked by the departure of people pivotal to each franchise, often times general managers, coordinators, and head coaches. Some are fired, either prematurely or for good reason, while others leave because it's just time to move on. The same goes for players, too, who are constantly reminded about how valuable they are to an organization after they're traded away regardless of loyalty.

Packers quarterback Brett Favre has never had this problem. Favre has been with Green Bay since 1992 and has led his team, with the exception of 2005, to a winning record every year. Last weekend, however, the veteran QB made the declaration that he's all but finished with football.

Like Favre said himself, I personally never thought the guy would give out mentally before he ever gave out physically. He cites several personal reasons for his current state of mind, which leads him to believe he isn't sure he'd be the right person to lead a drive in a two-minute drill. This is coming from someone who threw for 399 yards and four touchdowns on the day after his father died. Favre has been a walking synonym for leadership for well over a decade.

He has hit a rough patch lately with his wife's breast cancer diagnosis and a virtual wipeout of his hometown in Mississippi, events that by themselves would mentally take their toll on any human being. Coupled with a weak supporting cast in Green Bay, there's no doubt that throwing 29 picks and a 4-12 season wasn't just a fluke, but the symptoms of a man who has undergone life's struggles.

There are two schools of thought on the matter of Favre's return. There's the anti-camp, which speaks to the belief that the longer he sticks around, the harder it will be for his fans to say farewell. With a first-year coach and a questionably motivated Favre, one could argue that the chances are good the Pack misses the postseason again. Contrary to that though, is the principle of legacy. Favre can't end his career on his worst season ever. He needs to go out and have one last decent year to erase the sour attitude he has about his ability. It is ostensibly a tough decision. Is there really ever a right time to retire? I hope he doesn't.

Favre's livelihood is football and regardless of his Superbowl win, he should return next season if not for anything else to grasp his own peace of mind. If Favre can overcome adversity off the playing field, he can surely conquer his hardships on it.

Contact Brian Witter at (408) 551-1918 or bwitter@scu.edu.