Thursday, August 7, 2008

Green Bay Legend Brett Favre Traded to the Jets

It’s hard to believe that I am even saying these words: Brett Favre, quarterback of the New York Jets. It still has not sunk in. The trade, which took place last night, had been anticipated, but until it was made official, no one really believed that Brett Favre could play for anyone but the Green Bay Packers, could he? Rachel Nichols of ESPN made it official last night.

The New York Times has a great article about the state of mind of Packers fans, 24 hours after what will probably go down as the biggest trade in Packers history.

From the Times:

Only a small number of Packers fans turned out at Lambeau on Thursday, when the players lifted weights and watched film but did not practice. There were no sign-waving protestors waiting for Packers General Manager Ted Thompson when he left the complex via the loading dock at about 2:30 p.m., driving a blue Cadillac Escalade and wearing a baseball cap.

Reminders of Favre are everywhere. A fan whose backyard borders Lombardi Avenue across from the stadium has this painted in green and gold on his fence: “Hawk Eyes His Prey, Victory Not Favre Away.”

And now, life without Favre begins in Green Bay. The question remains, was this in Favre’s best interest? The jury is still out.

In my opinion, Favre should have stayed in Mississippi and retired as a Packer. Coming back, while it may be what he wants, may not be the best for his legacy. He will arguably go down as the greatest player in Packer history, but he did not RETIRE as a Packer. He could come back this season, throw for a couple dozen touchdowns, a couple thousand yards, and take the Jets to the playoffs. Or he could not. Remember, he is going to a team which has had trouble winning, much less making the playoffs over the past decade.

He is also playing in New York now. And the media, and the town, will only expect him to win. A lot of pressure for a quarterback who has seen his best days in the past.

I wish Brett the best of luck. He’s going to need it in New York!

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