In Defense of Favre
|
Posted by Derek Clendening Jul 16, 2009 |
Known as the NFL’s “Iron Man”, Brett Favre has proven that the nickname is no misnomer. Think about it. His first full time start, not including a forgettable stint with the Falcons, came in 1992, and he has never missed a game. Peyton Manning might be able to tout a similar streak one day, but Tom Brady has missed that chance. But is longevity everything? Well, consider the anatomy of a QB.
Teams want a player who can play. Favre has proven that, at thirty nine, he can still compare favorably to quarterbacks fifteen years his junior. In his last season with Green Bay, he helped to lead them to the NFC Championship game, but lost in overtime to eventual Superbowl Champion New York Giants.
He then went to the Jets where he posted numbers beneath those he earned in his prime, but enough to remain competitive. His touchdowns matched his interceptions at 22. His best years yielded a 2:1 touchdown to interception ratio. His passing yards at 3, 472 were well below his final Green Bay season, but not so much below the better of his Packer years.
This time, the Minnesota Vikings are the suitors. Favre told ESPN.com that his arm was feeling good, and that he wouldn’t have a decision for the Vikings until July 30, the opening day of their training camp. Really, it would seem that Favre can still play, and has the right attitude, but doesn’t want to take the field unless he can play his very best football.
And really, there is a difference between a decline in numbers and the inability to play anymore. Check the stats on some younger QBs in the league and then match them up against Favre. Buffalo’s Trent Edwards, at twenty five and in his second season, did not throw as many touchdown passes, and was a farther cry from making the playoffs than Favre. He also did not stay injury-free all season.
What the Vikings need to realize is that, though Favre is playing well, he is not the Favre of 1998. They need to set the bar accordingly. They also need to worry about a fast start and a December crash. Suite 101 contributing writer Thomas Mitsos points out that Favre finished 1-4 with the Jets. Had he finished stronger, New York would have made the playoffs, and Eric Mangini wouldn’t be in Cleveland right now.
Don’t be surprised to see the sports community question Favre’s decision if he dons purple in a few weeks. Some pigskin pundits considered Favre selfish for leaving retirement the first time. What really matters is Favre’s ability and his drive to play the game. And if an NFL team wants to give him the #4, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t accept it.