Community Tailgate: Could Brett Favre Still Play?

We’re still more than two months away from the start of battles on the NFL gridiron, but there’s no offseason when it comes to debate amongst fans. Earlier this summer, we launched a new series here at PFR that will be known as the Community Tailgate. What’s the Community Tailgate all about? Well, it’s pretty simple. Every weekday, we’ll highlight one of the top stories going on in the NFL. Then, in the comment section below, we want you to weigh in and let us know what you think.

Of course, while the debate may get spirited, we ask that it all stays respectful. If you need a reminder of our rules, please check out our commenting policy. Basically, we ask that you refrain from inappropriate language, personal insults, and attacks. Speaking of commenting: we’ve made it much easier to leave a comment here at Pro Football Rumors. You are no longer required to be a registered user – simply put in your name, email address, and comment and submit.

Today, we’ll be talking about a player who has been rumored to unretire more often than an over-the-hill boxer. Yes, of course, we’re talking about the Wrangler jean-wearing gunslinger himself – Brett Favre.

The first wave of retirement talk started for Favre in 2005 after he had a rather lackluster season under center. No. 4 had many years at the top of the quarterback heap but in ’05 he found himself atop the leaderboard for interceptions with a staggering 29. Favre not only came back for 2006 – he came back for the 2007 season after waffling and in 2008 he bolted for the Jets after previously indicating that he would hang ’em up. Of course, Favre told the Jets that he would retire only to hook on with the Vikings soon after. The veteran quarterback went on to play in Minnesota for two years and retired, but the injury-ravaged Rams came calling for him late in the 2013 season. Favre, then 44, said he was flattered, but ultimately declined.

Favre, now 45, made headlines this week when he told Sports Illustrated’s Greg Bishop he’s still capable of playing.

I could make all the throws I made before, I just couldn’t throw it near as far, but that never matters anyway,” said Favre.

Despite the confidence he has in his abilities, the 11-time Pro Bowler went on to say that he’s “not trying to start some he’s-coming-out-of-retirement deal.” And, let’s face it, the last iteration of Favre that we saw was rather forgettable, threw 11 touchdowns against 19 interceptions in 13 games for Minnesota in 2010.

It doesn’t sound like we should expect Favre to come back for the umpteenth time, but one has to wonder if he really does have the ability to play at a high level as he nears his 46th birthday. After all, if Hershel Walker could compete in mixed martial arts in his late 40s, anything is possible, right?

Do you think Favre could still play in the NFL today? Let us know in the comment section below!

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