According to the Tampa Tribune, Brett Favre has given the go-ahead to Green Bay to discuss trade terms with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They go on to say that the "chances of the trade unraveling are remote and Favre has indicated to the Bucs directly that he is willing to change teams.."
Further to our salary cap analysis from a few weeks back, we can confirm that as the Bucs currently have more than enough space to absorb Favre's current deal (They would remain $14.2m under the cap after signing him) there would be no need to restructure the contract, and would more than likely expedite both Chris Simms and Jeff Garcia's departure from the Bay area. We cannot see Garcia, the Pro-Bowler who led the Bucs to the NFC South title in his debut year, being willing to be a backup late in his 30s. This was likely to be his final season, at least in Pewter, with Griese or McCown taking over in 09. We reported previously that teams such as the Bears and Chiefs would be interested in a (mobile) veteran signal-caller who could hold the offence together, and it appears that they now may have their chance - provided they install the West Coast Offence.
The Tribune indicates a deal may be announced today (Wednesday) so keep checking back here at Wide-Right for any updates as and when they occur.
Showing posts with label Green Bay packers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Green Bay packers. Show all posts
Wednesday, 6 August 2008
Monday, 4 August 2008
Packers RB Grant signs extension
Miles apart? That was a week ago.
Sunday night saw Packers revelation Ryan Grant agree to a 4 year deal that could see Grant pocket a cool $30m, with $4.25m guaranteed. The move hurts second year Brandon Jackson, who had excelled with the first string in Grant's absence, although depending on exactly how well he did, Jackson still figures to beat out DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency in the crowded Green Bay backfield.
Sunday night saw Packers revelation Ryan Grant agree to a 4 year deal that could see Grant pocket a cool $30m, with $4.25m guaranteed. The move hurts second year Brandon Jackson, who had excelled with the first string in Grant's absence, although depending on exactly how well he did, Jackson still figures to beat out DeShawn Wynn and Vernand Morency in the crowded Green Bay backfield.
Sunday, 3 August 2008
Live Craziness Tonight
Oh Brett, what are you doing?
Brett Favre, at loggerheads with the Green Bay Packers for some time now over his desire to un-retire from the NFL and play for the team, is just 90mins away from landing in Wisconsin.
According to multiple sources, Favre will not attend tonight's scheduled practice at Lambeau field. The practice is a 'family night' and has been sold out for some time now. Instead, it is likely that he will (attempt to?) take part in Monday's 1pm session of Training Camp.
Commisioner Roger Goodell has apparently re-instated Favre, or at least expressed that such a move is imminent to both sides. Although Sunday is not technically a working day in the NFL's calendar, it seems that Goodell has either accepted Favre's reinstatement papers, or will do so early tommorow morning.
Stay tuned. That's all we're saying...
Brett Favre, at loggerheads with the Green Bay Packers for some time now over his desire to un-retire from the NFL and play for the team, is just 90mins away from landing in Wisconsin.
According to multiple sources, Favre will not attend tonight's scheduled practice at Lambeau field. The practice is a 'family night' and has been sold out for some time now. Instead, it is likely that he will (attempt to?) take part in Monday's 1pm session of Training Camp.
Commisioner Roger Goodell has apparently re-instated Favre, or at least expressed that such a move is imminent to both sides. Although Sunday is not technically a working day in the NFL's calendar, it seems that Goodell has either accepted Favre's reinstatement papers, or will do so early tommorow morning.
Stay tuned. That's all we're saying...
Friday, 1 August 2008
Favre could stay retired
Wow.
News has broken that in a text message to ESPN's Ed Werder, Brett Favre is seriously considering the team's offer of a $20m package that would see him not play in the NFL again. The package is now also said to hold a lifetime role for Favre within the organisation.
The news is unexpected, to say the least. Favre seems set on playing, and has even indicated to Werder that he wants to play - if not with the Packers - for another NFC North team. In his own words:
- Brett Favre via Text to ESPN's Ed Werder
Favre is obviously comfortable with the division, and in fairness to him, has played against the Vikings, Bears, and Lions enough to know that he can beat them. The chance to stick it to Green Bay's front office is also a factor.
On the other hand, this latest development seems to indicate that Favre perhaps misses the day to day involvement with football, rather than simply playing. He has always thrived on the banter and cameraderie of the locker room, and it has lifted him out of some major personal issues in the past. Perhaps that lack of a safety blanket has left him fearing that he could slide into obscurity. In any case, it seems that Favre was not entirely honest when he said he was '100% committed to playing' this year.
Favre has to be careful here. On the one hand, it would be a tremendous compromise for both sides, allowing the acrimony of recent weeks to be buried. On the other hand, he must be clear that he is not accepting the $20m for financial reasons, but because he wishes to be involved with the team in an active way.
News has broken that in a text message to ESPN's Ed Werder, Brett Favre is seriously considering the team's offer of a $20m package that would see him not play in the NFL again. The package is now also said to hold a lifetime role for Favre within the organisation.
The news is unexpected, to say the least. Favre seems set on playing, and has even indicated to Werder that he wants to play - if not with the Packers - for another NFC North team. In his own words:
I still want to play in this division for obvious reasons, which I made clear to management. If they won't let me play in Green Bay, let me play against you.
- Brett Favre via Text to ESPN's Ed Werder
Favre is obviously comfortable with the division, and in fairness to him, has played against the Vikings, Bears, and Lions enough to know that he can beat them. The chance to stick it to Green Bay's front office is also a factor.
On the other hand, this latest development seems to indicate that Favre perhaps misses the day to day involvement with football, rather than simply playing. He has always thrived on the banter and cameraderie of the locker room, and it has lifted him out of some major personal issues in the past. Perhaps that lack of a safety blanket has left him fearing that he could slide into obscurity. In any case, it seems that Favre was not entirely honest when he said he was '100% committed to playing' this year.
Favre has to be careful here. On the one hand, it would be a tremendous compromise for both sides, allowing the acrimony of recent weeks to be buried. On the other hand, he must be clear that he is not accepting the $20m for financial reasons, but because he wishes to be involved with the team in an active way.
Thursday, 31 July 2008
Something is about to hit the fan in Green Bay...
...and that thing is Brett Favre.
According to multiple sources, Brett Favre has chartered a plane to fly to Wisconsin from his Mississipi home and show up at Packers Training Camp tommorow. The move is likely in response to the Packers (frankly insulting) offer to pay him $20m to stay home for the next ten years, as reported this morning.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel revealed earlier that the team would consider trading Favre to the Bears, Lions or Vikings only as 'a last resort'. This differs from Favre's previous statement last week, which seemed to indicate that a trade to the Vikings was inconcievable.
Either way, the team is on the ropes now, and it's likely that the Vikings will get their man in the next few days. With Roger Goodell poised to intervene if the camp turns into a circus, the Packers know that the only way of getting adequate compensation for Favre may be to cut a deal with one of the two teams that they would least like him to play for.
For what it's worth, Favre is unlikely to accept a deal to Chicago. The whole offense is in dire need of help, and if he wishes to go out with a bang, the Bears would not be a logical choice. Apart from on-field issues though, Favre will be aware that it would be seen as one in the eye to the fans that supported him for 15 years in Wisconsin.
On the other hand, it would provide the maximum 'revenge' factor possible to the Packers as an organisation...
According to multiple sources, Brett Favre has chartered a plane to fly to Wisconsin from his Mississipi home and show up at Packers Training Camp tommorow. The move is likely in response to the Packers (frankly insulting) offer to pay him $20m to stay home for the next ten years, as reported this morning.
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel revealed earlier that the team would consider trading Favre to the Bears, Lions or Vikings only as 'a last resort'. This differs from Favre's previous statement last week, which seemed to indicate that a trade to the Vikings was inconcievable.
Either way, the team is on the ropes now, and it's likely that the Vikings will get their man in the next few days. With Roger Goodell poised to intervene if the camp turns into a circus, the Packers know that the only way of getting adequate compensation for Favre may be to cut a deal with one of the two teams that they would least like him to play for.
For what it's worth, Favre is unlikely to accept a deal to Chicago. The whole offense is in dire need of help, and if he wishes to go out with a bang, the Bears would not be a logical choice. Apart from on-field issues though, Favre will be aware that it would be seen as one in the eye to the fans that supported him for 15 years in Wisconsin.
On the other hand, it would provide the maximum 'revenge' factor possible to the Packers as an organisation...
$20m to stay home?
That's allegedly what Packers GM Ted Thompson has offered Green Bay 'nuisance' Brett Favre over 10 years to retire, shut up, and let them get on with business including offering their starting running back a contract befitting one, as opposed to the undrafted running back contract he is on.
Favre to accept? Do future hall of famers accept bribes to make life easier for teams that are playing hardball? No, and this is likely to light a fire under #4 in his determination to obtain a trade. That said, maybe, just maybe, Thompson figures that if he annoys Favre enough, he'll take a trade to wherever the Packers see fit.
Beyond the realms of possibility? Possibly, but the way the Favre situation is being played out rule NOTHING out.
Favre to accept? Do future hall of famers accept bribes to make life easier for teams that are playing hardball? No, and this is likely to light a fire under #4 in his determination to obtain a trade. That said, maybe, just maybe, Thompson figures that if he annoys Favre enough, he'll take a trade to wherever the Packers see fit.
Beyond the realms of possibility? Possibly, but the way the Favre situation is being played out rule NOTHING out.
Tuesday, 29 July 2008
Favre Faxes Reinstatement Letter
As we predicted earlier, the day of reckoning in the Brett Favre saga is finally here, and this afternoon the final act began.
According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen (who has been a reliable source on the issue so far), Favre has faxed through the signed letter requesting reinstatement to the NFL as an active player, thus backing Packers GM Ted Thompson into a corner. The team must now decide whether to welcome the Quarterback back to camp, or to trade him.
Also today, Commisioner Roger Goodell put his foot down, and has informed the Packers and Favre that he will not act yet - but that the team has 24hrs to find a solution before he wades into the fracas. It is the first significant deadline handed down by the league, and emphasises the concern that Goodell feels regarding the legacy of one of the greatest players of all time.
Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, the heir to Favre's throne in Wisconsin, characteristically described himself as "...not as affected as you guys think I am or should be" by events today. Packers coach Mike McCarthy informed the press that any resolution would be put to Favre before it is made public.
At this point, it's hard to see what the Packers can do, short of trading Favre to the Vikings in the hope of at least recouping some compensation, rather than being forced to release him by the league, and letting the Vikings get him for nothing.
We'll be on this one tommorow, it should be a busy - and momentous - day.
According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen (who has been a reliable source on the issue so far), Favre has faxed through the signed letter requesting reinstatement to the NFL as an active player, thus backing Packers GM Ted Thompson into a corner. The team must now decide whether to welcome the Quarterback back to camp, or to trade him.
Also today, Commisioner Roger Goodell put his foot down, and has informed the Packers and Favre that he will not act yet - but that the team has 24hrs to find a solution before he wades into the fracas. It is the first significant deadline handed down by the league, and emphasises the concern that Goodell feels regarding the legacy of one of the greatest players of all time.
Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, the heir to Favre's throne in Wisconsin, characteristically described himself as "...not as affected as you guys think I am or should be" by events today. Packers coach Mike McCarthy informed the press that any resolution would be put to Favre before it is made public.
At this point, it's hard to see what the Packers can do, short of trading Favre to the Vikings in the hope of at least recouping some compensation, rather than being forced to release him by the league, and letting the Vikings get him for nothing.
We'll be on this one tommorow, it should be a busy - and momentous - day.
Day of reckoning upon us?
Well, in Saturday's interview with Chris Mortensen of ESPN, Brett Favre gave Tuesday as a 'soft' deadline for the Packers to resolve the impassé that exists between the two sides.
As of 1pm EST, there have been no updates.
It's unlikely that Favre will be in Camp at any point today or tommorow, despite his posturing to the contrary. On the other hand, it would be very unwise for the team to try and stall the situation any longer, as this could prompt Favre to file his reinstatement papers, and then in turn forcing the Packers to either let him return, or fine him for missing camp - something that would be a PR disaster.
We'd expect a statement from one side or the other before tommorow though, as it is unlikely that without progress on a trade, Favre will let the team rest on it's laurels.
As of 1pm EST, there have been no updates.
It's unlikely that Favre will be in Camp at any point today or tommorow, despite his posturing to the contrary. On the other hand, it would be very unwise for the team to try and stall the situation any longer, as this could prompt Favre to file his reinstatement papers, and then in turn forcing the Packers to either let him return, or fine him for missing camp - something that would be a PR disaster.
We'd expect a statement from one side or the other before tommorow though, as it is unlikely that without progress on a trade, Favre will let the team rest on it's laurels.
Sunday, 27 July 2008
Favre has no interest in Bucs or Jets - resolution by Tuesday?
Brett Favre has spoken to ESPN's Chris Mortensen regarding his protracted standoff with the Packers, and revealed that not only does he want the impassé to end soon, but that neither the Jets or Buccaneers are his preffered destinations in any trade.
- Brett Favre
Favre seems to have hardened his stance with the Packers, indicating also later in the interview that this coming Tuesday will be the deadline for the team to have worked out a solution to the situation. If nothing is worked out, he intends to go into camp and, by the sounds of it, make life very difficult for Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy. Just yesterday, McCarthy spoke of the desire to protect the strained relationship between Favre and the Packers.
Later in the interview, Favre explained that when Thompson asked if he would be open to a trade, that he replied "Yeah - just not to the teams you want me to go to". Both the Bucs and Jets have permission to speak to Favre. It is believed that the Vikings are his preference, but as he acknowledges, "The Packers aren't going to let that happen."
"I said, 'Let me compete, you'll know I'll win this job' and Ted (Thompson, General Manager) said again, 'Brett, things have changed. Aaron Rodgers is our quarterback.' It's pretty clear - and this is what I told the commissioner - that they want me to go away, stay retired. They would much rather see me in a Packers' uniform, paying me $12 million to be a backup -- which you know they really don't want -- rather than see me in another uniform, no matter what they say. They'll drag this out, asking a king's ransom (in a trade), hoping it all goes away."
- Brett Favre
Favre seems to have hardened his stance with the Packers, indicating also later in the interview that this coming Tuesday will be the deadline for the team to have worked out a solution to the situation. If nothing is worked out, he intends to go into camp and, by the sounds of it, make life very difficult for Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy. Just yesterday, McCarthy spoke of the desire to protect the strained relationship between Favre and the Packers.
Later in the interview, Favre explained that when Thompson asked if he would be open to a trade, that he replied "Yeah - just not to the teams you want me to go to". Both the Bucs and Jets have permission to speak to Favre. It is believed that the Vikings are his preference, but as he acknowledges, "The Packers aren't going to let that happen."
Friday, 25 July 2008
Bucs can also speak to Favre
Well it's been a slow few weeks, but it's all kicking off now.
Fox Sports' Jay Glazer revealed tonight that Tampa Bay have also been given permission to discuss terms with Brett Favre, joining the New York Jets in the mix.
As we mentioned, the fact that the Bucs host Green Bay in a regular season game this year could heavily influence Favre's decision. Both teams intend to compete this year, but if he wants revenge on the Packers, expect Favre to be in Florida soon.
Fox Sports' Jay Glazer revealed tonight that Tampa Bay have also been given permission to discuss terms with Brett Favre, joining the New York Jets in the mix.
As we mentioned, the fact that the Bucs host Green Bay in a regular season game this year could heavily influence Favre's decision. Both teams intend to compete this year, but if he wants revenge on the Packers, expect Favre to be in Florida soon.
Favre to the Jets?
Further to Richard's report that Brett Favre is intending to report to Training Camp on time in Green Bay, comes the news that the Packers and the New York Jets have come to an agreement that will allow the Jets to discuss terms with Favre.
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that the Buccaneers have also made firm contact regarding a trade of Favre, but it is a common belief that the Packers would prefer to trade their former figurehead to a non-NFC team, and added to the fact that Green Bay travel to Tampa in September for a regular season matchup, you can bet that the price will be higher for the Bucs than the Jets.
The cost? No doubt the team will be aware that Favre is at least as valuable as Jason Taylor, who went from Miami to Washington for a 2nd round pick in 2009. They have been slightly compromised by the fact that they have indicated their own apathy towards having Favre back in a Packers uniform next season.
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports that the Buccaneers have also made firm contact regarding a trade of Favre, but it is a common belief that the Packers would prefer to trade their former figurehead to a non-NFC team, and added to the fact that Green Bay travel to Tampa in September for a regular season matchup, you can bet that the price will be higher for the Bucs than the Jets.
The cost? No doubt the team will be aware that Favre is at least as valuable as Jason Taylor, who went from Miami to Washington for a 2nd round pick in 2009. They have been slightly compromised by the fact that they have indicated their own apathy towards having Favre back in a Packers uniform next season.
Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Favre update
We've not been reporting on the whole 'B***t F***e situation' for a few days, figuring that news about the saga was starting to jade even the most ardent fanatics.
So here's a handy guide to some news from the last few days:
First of all, the Vikings were accused of tampering with Favre, an allegation that revolved around alleged discussions between the Quarterback and Vikes' coach Brad Childress. It emerged yesterday that Favre used a mobile phone contracted to the Packers, which would be a violation of salary cap rules.
Of course, the Packers won't mind getting a minor charge if it proves that the Vikings have been involved in a far more serious charge. Such an event could end any hopes that Minnesota had of prising Favre away from Green Bay, and could also see them punished in the vain of the 49ers, who lost a 5th round draft pick after being found guilty of tampering with Chicago's Lance Briggs last summer.
Also yesterday, the Packers were reported by The NFL Network to be actively shopping Favre around the league. Baltimore were (as we predicted) the first team that the Packers sought out, but their exploratory offer (thought to be a third round pick) was rejected before any serious talks began.
Other suitors who have contacted the Packers - according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel include Atlanta, Chicago, Tampa Bay, the Jets, Miami, Carolina, Kansas City, Washington, and Detroit.
So just about everyone then.
It also emerged today via ESPN.com's Chris Mortensen, that Commissioner Roger Goodell telephoned Packers GM Ted Thompson, and asked the team to resolve the Favre situation as soon as possible. This shift now places the onus onto the Packers to shop Favre around, something they have tried to avoid as they try to hardball Favre into staying retired.
So here's a handy guide to some news from the last few days:
First of all, the Vikings were accused of tampering with Favre, an allegation that revolved around alleged discussions between the Quarterback and Vikes' coach Brad Childress. It emerged yesterday that Favre used a mobile phone contracted to the Packers, which would be a violation of salary cap rules.
Of course, the Packers won't mind getting a minor charge if it proves that the Vikings have been involved in a far more serious charge. Such an event could end any hopes that Minnesota had of prising Favre away from Green Bay, and could also see them punished in the vain of the 49ers, who lost a 5th round draft pick after being found guilty of tampering with Chicago's Lance Briggs last summer.
Also yesterday, the Packers were reported by The NFL Network to be actively shopping Favre around the league. Baltimore were (as we predicted) the first team that the Packers sought out, but their exploratory offer (thought to be a third round pick) was rejected before any serious talks began.
Other suitors who have contacted the Packers - according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel include Atlanta, Chicago, Tampa Bay, the Jets, Miami, Carolina, Kansas City, Washington, and Detroit.
So just about everyone then.
It also emerged today via ESPN.com's Chris Mortensen, that Commissioner Roger Goodell telephoned Packers GM Ted Thompson, and asked the team to resolve the Favre situation as soon as possible. This shift now places the onus onto the Packers to shop Favre around, something they have tried to avoid as they try to hardball Favre into staying retired.
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
Rodgers receives Favre blessing
Buried away in the second installment of Brett Favre's FOX news interview, were his response to Aaron Rodgers, who told Green Bay fans last month to '...shut up and get on board', regarding his tenure with the Packers.
- Brett Favre speaks about his successor, Aaron Rodgers
Favre and Rodgers were never best friends, but neither was there ever any animosity between the two. Rodgers was aware from day one that there were no conflicting opinions amongst fans about who should be Green Bay starter if both men were healthy, and so has never griped or complained about the way he has been almost cast aside as an afterthought to Favre's annual retirement saga. This stoicism has endeared him to locals who know that even if Favre were to come back for one more year, sooner or later, the team needs to be handed to Rodgers.
Favre knows this now. If he were in any doubt, the fact that there are as many activists on both sides of the fence should make it clearer. Indeed, in response to one petition to bring him back, a reader informs us that there is a similiar campaign to keep him on the Golf course.
We got along fine. He's 14 years younger than me. I know he made some comments here lately. But when I was his age I made some crazy comments, too, so I can't hold that against him... It's got to be hard on him. My only advice to him, and I never gave him advice, really, would be that the only way to shut that up, we all know, is to go out and play and play well. And that's not to say that they would forget what I've done. But go out and prove it on the field. That's all I would say. I'm not sitting here bashing Aaron Rodgers. I think he'll do a fine job, and I think his comments are not a surprise. Not only from him, but I might have said the same thing.
- Brett Favre speaks about his successor, Aaron Rodgers
Favre and Rodgers were never best friends, but neither was there ever any animosity between the two. Rodgers was aware from day one that there were no conflicting opinions amongst fans about who should be Green Bay starter if both men were healthy, and so has never griped or complained about the way he has been almost cast aside as an afterthought to Favre's annual retirement saga. This stoicism has endeared him to locals who know that even if Favre were to come back for one more year, sooner or later, the team needs to be handed to Rodgers.
Favre knows this now. If he were in any doubt, the fact that there are as many activists on both sides of the fence should make it clearer. Indeed, in response to one petition to bring him back, a reader informs us that there is a similiar campaign to keep him on the Golf course.
Favre speaks part 2 - This time it's personal...
If the first part of Brett Favre's Fox News interview could be considered a tentative step into the ring, then Round 2 has seen the Green Bay Packers legend throw some haymakers at the team.
Asked by Greta Van Susteren if he was considering a return to the team in Training Camp, Favre said:
- Brett Favre speaking on Fox News
Uh oh! It's one thing to slate individual members of the front office, as he did on Monday, but to say that he's considering actively causing a problem for the football team? That's probably not the way to go about things when your biggest leverage comes from the way you have conducted yourself over a long career. On the other hand, perhaps the childlike, infectious enthusiasm for the game that we love about Favre, could also be the same mentality that makes him throw his toys out of the pram when he doesn't get his own way...
Favre did express sympathy with Aaron Rodgers, and in fact showed his support for Rodgers as Green Bay's starter next year.
- Favre on Aaron Rodgers
The problem for Rodgers is that, with Favre set on playing again next year, he will be compared to Favre constantly. That was always going to be the case, but it's a whole different kettle of fish when the guy you replaced is still playing in the league.
The one thing we can definately take from all of this is that the whole situation is headed towards a Steve McNair-esque confrontation. If Favre turns up, will the team even let him practice? One man who should know is McNair's agent, who in a happy coincidence, happens to be Favre's agent, James "Bus" Cook.
We'll have more from Green Bay throughout the day. Thanks to everyone who have sent emails of support, we appreciate all the comments we receive - both positive and negative.
Asked by Greta Van Susteren if he was considering a return to the team in Training Camp, Favre said:
"It's tempting just to, as everyone said, you know, call their bluff or whatever... I think it's going to be a circus in itself already, whether I go there, whatever."
- Brett Favre speaking on Fox News
Uh oh! It's one thing to slate individual members of the front office, as he did on Monday, but to say that he's considering actively causing a problem for the football team? That's probably not the way to go about things when your biggest leverage comes from the way you have conducted yourself over a long career. On the other hand, perhaps the childlike, infectious enthusiasm for the game that we love about Favre, could also be the same mentality that makes him throw his toys out of the pram when he doesn't get his own way...
Favre did express sympathy with Aaron Rodgers, and in fact showed his support for Rodgers as Green Bay's starter next year.
"I know this has been tough on him. I think he'll do a fine job. And this has nothing to do with him, this whole deal."
- Favre on Aaron Rodgers
The problem for Rodgers is that, with Favre set on playing again next year, he will be compared to Favre constantly. That was always going to be the case, but it's a whole different kettle of fish when the guy you replaced is still playing in the league.
The one thing we can definately take from all of this is that the whole situation is headed towards a Steve McNair-esque confrontation. If Favre turns up, will the team even let him practice? One man who should know is McNair's agent, who in a happy coincidence, happens to be Favre's agent, James "Bus" Cook.
We'll have more from Green Bay throughout the day. Thanks to everyone who have sent emails of support, we appreciate all the comments we receive - both positive and negative.
Tuesday, 15 July 2008
Wahle and Rivera
Earlier we published thoughts on Brett Favre's interview with Fox News, during which he slated Ted Thompson, the Packers GM, for not re-signing Marco Rivera or Mike Wahle in 2004.
A reader informs that the Packers were actually unable to sign Wahle or Rivera due to salary cap issues. The team had just $975,000 left at the end of the season, the second least amount of room in the whole league. As we said, Favre is the Quarterback for a reason, and his GM skills leave something to be desired.
Not only that, but neither Rivera or Wahle has had much success outside of Green Bay. Wahle is now with the Seahawks, after being released by Carolina after just three seasons, while Rivera is out of the league completely after being released by the Cowboys last season.
Hindsight is a wonderful thing as a General Manager, but we don't think Favre give up his day job just yet.
Actually, what the hell is his day job?
A reader informs that the Packers were actually unable to sign Wahle or Rivera due to salary cap issues. The team had just $975,000 left at the end of the season, the second least amount of room in the whole league. As we said, Favre is the Quarterback for a reason, and his GM skills leave something to be desired.
Not only that, but neither Rivera or Wahle has had much success outside of Green Bay. Wahle is now with the Seahawks, after being released by Carolina after just three seasons, while Rivera is out of the league completely after being released by the Cowboys last season.
Hindsight is a wonderful thing as a General Manager, but we don't think Favre give up his day job just yet.
Actually, what the hell is his day job?
Favre's '3 issues'
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel has a full transcript of the Brett Favre interview from Monday night on Fox News, and it gives a more in depth look at the Quarterback's thinking. The transcript includes segments that were not aired on TV, including three issues that Favre apparently feels strongly about:
The Packers failing to land Randy Moss
Favre mentions that he was willing to give up some of his own salary to land Moss, who enjoyed one of the most productive seasons in NFL history last year. Unfortunately, the Packers saw something in Moss that didn't fit with the team. In truth, it's hard to think that the Packers needed Moss, especially when you consider that they already had a good starting tandem of Donald Driver and Greg Jennings. Still, it's fair to say that any QB in the league would love to have a player like Moss to throw to, so we can see Favre's point on this one.
Allowing key offensive linemen to leave in free agency
Favre was dissapointed also, in the team's inability to keep hold of starters Mike Wahle and Marco Rivera in 2004, the Guards who had anchored the line for several years. Remember that the Pack have had the youngest Offensive line in the league for a few seasons now, and the only fixtures have been tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher. If anything can hurt an offence's rhythm, it is an incosistent line. Again, we see Favre's point here, mainly because to take away two starting Guards in the same season, when you have the cap room that the Pack invariably have, is false economy.
Steve Mariucci not being considered for the Head Coaching position
Brett Favre's final major gripe was the front office's refusal to interview long time friend (and former Packers position coach) Steve Mariucci for the vacant Head Coaching position in 2006. It's here that you start to wonder about Favre's sense of perspective, as he berates Ted Thompson for hiring ANOTHER of his former QB coaches, Mike McCarthy. McCarthy has done exceptionally well as a coach, and was even named last season's coach of the year. Wheras we actually like Mariucci, it's hard to see Favre's point when he discusses the three incidents leading to a 'lack of trust' between himself and Thompson.
In fact, looking back at all three of Favre's concerns, the Packers seem to have got it right in the main. The WR unit has unparalelled depth, and was recently ranked as the 4th best in the NFL by Scouts inc. The Offensive line, similiarly, was ranked 8th best in the league, and was statistically amongst the best pass blocking units last year. As we already mentioned, Mike McCarthy has been a big success in Wisconsin, winning acolades from his peers, while also taking the Pckers to an NFC Championship game, which they narrowly lost to eventual Superbowl winners, the New York Giants.
There is a reason that Ted Thompson is paid to make personel decisions, while Brett Favre is not. A look back at the GM's record on such key issues seems to suggest that he gets them right, even when flying in the face of what outside influences believe is right for the team.
Something that Favre might want to consider when he looks at his own situation.
The Packers failing to land Randy Moss
Favre mentions that he was willing to give up some of his own salary to land Moss, who enjoyed one of the most productive seasons in NFL history last year. Unfortunately, the Packers saw something in Moss that didn't fit with the team. In truth, it's hard to think that the Packers needed Moss, especially when you consider that they already had a good starting tandem of Donald Driver and Greg Jennings. Still, it's fair to say that any QB in the league would love to have a player like Moss to throw to, so we can see Favre's point on this one.
Allowing key offensive linemen to leave in free agency
Favre was dissapointed also, in the team's inability to keep hold of starters Mike Wahle and Marco Rivera in 2004, the Guards who had anchored the line for several years. Remember that the Pack have had the youngest Offensive line in the league for a few seasons now, and the only fixtures have been tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher. If anything can hurt an offence's rhythm, it is an incosistent line. Again, we see Favre's point here, mainly because to take away two starting Guards in the same season, when you have the cap room that the Pack invariably have, is false economy.
Steve Mariucci not being considered for the Head Coaching position
Brett Favre's final major gripe was the front office's refusal to interview long time friend (and former Packers position coach) Steve Mariucci for the vacant Head Coaching position in 2006. It's here that you start to wonder about Favre's sense of perspective, as he berates Ted Thompson for hiring ANOTHER of his former QB coaches, Mike McCarthy. McCarthy has done exceptionally well as a coach, and was even named last season's coach of the year. Wheras we actually like Mariucci, it's hard to see Favre's point when he discusses the three incidents leading to a 'lack of trust' between himself and Thompson.
In fact, looking back at all three of Favre's concerns, the Packers seem to have got it right in the main. The WR unit has unparalelled depth, and was recently ranked as the 4th best in the NFL by Scouts inc. The Offensive line, similiarly, was ranked 8th best in the league, and was statistically amongst the best pass blocking units last year. As we already mentioned, Mike McCarthy has been a big success in Wisconsin, winning acolades from his peers, while also taking the Pckers to an NFC Championship game, which they narrowly lost to eventual Superbowl winners, the New York Giants.
There is a reason that Ted Thompson is paid to make personel decisions, while Brett Favre is not. A look back at the GM's record on such key issues seems to suggest that he gets them right, even when flying in the face of what outside influences believe is right for the team.
Something that Favre might want to consider when he looks at his own situation.
Monday, 14 July 2008
Favre: From the Horse's mouth
Stop the press: Brett Favre has finally given an interview that clarifies his retirement situation. Fox News's Greta Van Susteren has scooped the interview they all wanted, and it will go out tonight.
In the interview, Favre admits that he is 'guilty of retiring early'. He also says that he always wanted to play in Green Bay, and that the current situation is a result of pressure from the organisation. Though he does not name Ted Thompson by name, you can be assured that the media will be jumping straight to the conclusion that he is to blame for Favre's retirement.
- Brett Favre speaking to Fox News
One thing that Favre is making clear is that he will be playing somewhere next season. By finally breaking his silence, he has upped the stakes. The Packers probably can't afford to sit Favre next season for a couple of reasons: He would be a huge distraction to Aaron Rodgers, and it would be terrible PR, especially as Favre is one of the NFL's most popular players ever.
On the other hand, the team seems unreceptive to trade offers, and made it clear on Saturday that there have been no offers as yet for their former star Quarterback. Now that other teams have heard the desire from favre's own mouth, we could see some movement towards a trade in the next few weeks.
In the interview, Favre admits that he is 'guilty of retiring early'. He also says that he always wanted to play in Green Bay, and that the current situation is a result of pressure from the organisation. Though he does not name Ted Thompson by name, you can be assured that the media will be jumping straight to the conclusion that he is to blame for Favre's retirement.
"Them moving on does not bother me, it doesn't. I totally understand that. By me retiring March 3rd, I knew that could possibly happen. All I was saying is, you know, I'm thinking about playing again."
- Brett Favre speaking to Fox News
One thing that Favre is making clear is that he will be playing somewhere next season. By finally breaking his silence, he has upped the stakes. The Packers probably can't afford to sit Favre next season for a couple of reasons: He would be a huge distraction to Aaron Rodgers, and it would be terrible PR, especially as Favre is one of the NFL's most popular players ever.
On the other hand, the team seems unreceptive to trade offers, and made it clear on Saturday that there have been no offers as yet for their former star Quarterback. Now that other teams have heard the desire from favre's own mouth, we could see some movement towards a trade in the next few weeks.
What Brett Favre's return means for Aaron Rodgers
As we made quite clear this weekend, the one person we have sympathy for in the whole Brett Favre Tragi-Comedy, is former first round pick Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers has spent three long years waiting for Favre to retire, and now, when he finally seems destined to become starter, his former mentor has expressed his desire to play for yet another season.
Rodgers has publicly been anointed the team's starter by GM Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy. Unfortunately, that was done before Favre said that he was '100% committed' to playing in 2008. Now that the Packers are becoming ambiguous on the subject, saying that should he return he would be 'considered an active part of the Packers', Rodgers must have the uneasy feeling that his job is far from secure. There is a chance that this is posturing on both sides, and that the team would prefer to move on without #4, but taken at face value, there would be little doubt that Favre would win any QB battle between himself and Rodgers.
So assuming that Favre comes back to the Packers, what does the future hold for Rodgers? Many have suggested that it's no big deal. After all, the guy has sat for three seasons, what will one more matter? Well, apart from the obvious - money earned from playing time and bonuses - Rodgers is getting towards the end of the five year deal he signed in 2005, so assuming that he didn't play this year, that leaves him the 2009 season to prove himself in the NFL. Again though, what price on the Favre question this time next year?
The team has drafted Brian Brohm, arguably a first round talent, and Rodgers may even find himself playing the last year of his contract with pressure from the former Louisville Quarterback. If Brohm gains the trust of the coaching staff, Rodgers would have a very small window to become acclimatised to the NFL. Four years on the bench is no substitute for four games in the league, and it could be argued that neither man has started a regular season game yet.
So what should Rodgers do? His best course of action would likely be to ask for a trade. He would be coveted by a number of teams who aren't convinced by their current incumbent, though if the Pack' demand anywhere near Rodgers' original first round value, that could be a stumbling block. It's still likely that at least one team would be happy to pay up for him though, and with Brohm on the roster, Green Bay may opt to cash in on at least one of their highly rated signal callers.
Unfortunately for Rodgers, he is a cheap insurance policy as far as Green Bay are concerned. He is scheduled to make just $680,000 this year, and even if he starts this season and next, he will have missed out on more than half of the $24.5m deal he signed as a Rookie. In fact, to put things into perspective, he will have made just $2m in incentives, out of a potential $17m.
Money isn't everything, and let's not get into a situation where we feel sorry for millionaires, but the fact remains that Rodgers could find himself out of the league in 3 years time, and have earned a fraction of his likely earnings, if he does not get a chance to prove his worth as a starter in the NFL soon.
For some, that 'Big second contract' can't come round soon enough. For Aaron Rodgers, it is looming up all too quickly on the horizon of his career.
Rodgers has publicly been anointed the team's starter by GM Ted Thompson and Coach Mike McCarthy. Unfortunately, that was done before Favre said that he was '100% committed' to playing in 2008. Now that the Packers are becoming ambiguous on the subject, saying that should he return he would be 'considered an active part of the Packers', Rodgers must have the uneasy feeling that his job is far from secure. There is a chance that this is posturing on both sides, and that the team would prefer to move on without #4, but taken at face value, there would be little doubt that Favre would win any QB battle between himself and Rodgers.
So assuming that Favre comes back to the Packers, what does the future hold for Rodgers? Many have suggested that it's no big deal. After all, the guy has sat for three seasons, what will one more matter? Well, apart from the obvious - money earned from playing time and bonuses - Rodgers is getting towards the end of the five year deal he signed in 2005, so assuming that he didn't play this year, that leaves him the 2009 season to prove himself in the NFL. Again though, what price on the Favre question this time next year?
The team has drafted Brian Brohm, arguably a first round talent, and Rodgers may even find himself playing the last year of his contract with pressure from the former Louisville Quarterback. If Brohm gains the trust of the coaching staff, Rodgers would have a very small window to become acclimatised to the NFL. Four years on the bench is no substitute for four games in the league, and it could be argued that neither man has started a regular season game yet.
So what should Rodgers do? His best course of action would likely be to ask for a trade. He would be coveted by a number of teams who aren't convinced by their current incumbent, though if the Pack' demand anywhere near Rodgers' original first round value, that could be a stumbling block. It's still likely that at least one team would be happy to pay up for him though, and with Brohm on the roster, Green Bay may opt to cash in on at least one of their highly rated signal callers.
Unfortunately for Rodgers, he is a cheap insurance policy as far as Green Bay are concerned. He is scheduled to make just $680,000 this year, and even if he starts this season and next, he will have missed out on more than half of the $24.5m deal he signed as a Rookie. In fact, to put things into perspective, he will have made just $2m in incentives, out of a potential $17m.
Money isn't everything, and let's not get into a situation where we feel sorry for millionaires, but the fact remains that Rodgers could find himself out of the league in 3 years time, and have earned a fraction of his likely earnings, if he does not get a chance to prove his worth as a starter in the NFL soon.
For some, that 'Big second contract' can't come round soon enough. For Aaron Rodgers, it is looming up all too quickly on the horizon of his career.
Favre saga trundes on
Chris Jenkins of the AP has handily compiled a timeline of the entire Brett Favre issue. Most of it has been well documented, but some interesting snippets of information have been gleaned.
Certianly, in McCarthy's version of events, Favre would not have been under the impression that GM Ted Thompson and McCarthy did not want him back. If anything, they seem to have gone out of their way to placate their Quarterback, and give him as much time as was needed. McCarthy also mentions that he offered Favre the option of practising less, but as Favre said during his retirement press conference: If he was not 100% commited to football, he wasn't coming back.
Another interesting point is that Thompson - who has been vilified by the media for his part in recent events - actually had dinner with Favre as recently as May. This certainly seems to dispel some of the myth that this is a personal battle between the two, a conclusion readily assumed by the media.
But perhaps the most critical part of the timeline is Favre's assertion towards the end of June. Remember that this was just 3-4 weeks ago:
Those who question the Packers' handling of this situation would do well to read that last sentence again. How could the organisation be sure of Favre's intentions when he was not himself? It seems that all the way up to the draft, the team was open to Favre's return, and actively pursued him to come back. It seems however, that when the team selected QB's Brian Brohm and Matt Flynn, Favre suddenly realised that the team was ready to move on.
This revelation seems to have prompted a stubborn streak in Favre, something that served him well during his NFL career. His desire to prove the Packers wrong seems to be an overriding factor here. He certainly does not seeme to have given the team a fair indication of his mental state before the draft, instead spurning multiple opportunities to respond to their overtures. The fact that Favre first said he was 100% committed to football on July 8th seems to back that up, as the more entrenched Aaron Rodgers became at QB, the less likely the team were to accept him back.
We'll have more on Rodgers soon.
Certianly, in McCarthy's version of events, Favre would not have been under the impression that GM Ted Thompson and McCarthy did not want him back. If anything, they seem to have gone out of their way to placate their Quarterback, and give him as much time as was needed. McCarthy also mentions that he offered Favre the option of practising less, but as Favre said during his retirement press conference: If he was not 100% commited to football, he wasn't coming back.
Another interesting point is that Thompson - who has been vilified by the media for his part in recent events - actually had dinner with Favre as recently as May. This certainly seems to dispel some of the myth that this is a personal battle between the two, a conclusion readily assumed by the media.
But perhaps the most critical part of the timeline is Favre's assertion towards the end of June. Remember that this was just 3-4 weeks ago:
June 16-20: Acting on Campen's advice, McCarthy calls Favre. They play phone tag for a few days but eventually connect. "You and Ted need to have a plan if I do come back," Favre says, according to McCarthy. "Either give me my helmet or give me my release."
At that point, McCarthy asks Favre if he was 100 percent committed to a return. "He said, 'No, no, I'm not saying I'm there yet.'"
-Associated Press
Those who question the Packers' handling of this situation would do well to read that last sentence again. How could the organisation be sure of Favre's intentions when he was not himself? It seems that all the way up to the draft, the team was open to Favre's return, and actively pursued him to come back. It seems however, that when the team selected QB's Brian Brohm and Matt Flynn, Favre suddenly realised that the team was ready to move on.
This revelation seems to have prompted a stubborn streak in Favre, something that served him well during his NFL career. His desire to prove the Packers wrong seems to be an overriding factor here. He certainly does not seeme to have given the team a fair indication of his mental state before the draft, instead spurning multiple opportunities to respond to their overtures. The fact that Favre first said he was 100% committed to football on July 8th seems to back that up, as the more entrenched Aaron Rodgers became at QB, the less likely the team were to accept him back.
We'll have more on Rodgers soon.
Sunday, 13 July 2008
Ted Thompson stands firm - and rightly so.
Many websites and columnists have found an easy scapegoat for the Brett Favre situation - Packers GM Ted Thompson. The words emanating from the Favre-friendly media are that he 'didn't feel wanted' by the Packers, and it has been portrayed by many that Thompson somehow drove Favre out.
Hold on a second.
Brett Favre retired. Does anyone honestly believe that the Pack didn't want Favre to be starter next year? It's rubbish. It's an enormous fallacy, and it's even more baffling that the media genuinely seem to be playing along for some reason. A report by ESPN's Kevin Seifert claims that Favre contacted the team weeks after his decision and said that he had the fabled 'itch'. When the Packers attempted to get him to come back, however, Favre declined a meeting with Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy. If he had shown that he was serious, then the team would have at least known what was happening. As it turned out, the only QB on their roster was Aaron Rodgers.
So the Packers had a dilemma that had no 'right' answer. Sure they could wait for Favre to get another itch, but what if it doesn't come? The idea that the Packers were slave to Favre's whims is a worrying one. At what point did he become bigger than the franchise? Sure, he made the team great, but he didn't do it single handedly.
Ted Thompson made the right decision. He drafted two QB's this year, and promoted Aaron Rodgers to starter. It was the only decision that granted any kind of firm ground beneath the team's feet. If Favre had seriously considered the team's offer to return in March, then this would never have happened. People are enamoured with Favre, and the problem is that some people are actively politicking for his return at the expense of Rodgers. Here is a quote from NFL.com's Pat Kirwan:
-NFL.com senior writer Pat Kirwan
What a thought. Aaron Rodgers should really accept that his career may never start. It's irresponsible, reckless journalism that does not deserve it's place on a major sports website. To state that a young man's livelihood is not as important as Brett Favre's 'itch', is to show that you have completely lost touch with reality.
Favre is a great man, and a great player, but this situation is leaving an ugly stain on his legacy. If he is traded, it is perhaps the best compromise for Favre and the Packers, but in reality, he has no leverage to get such an outcome, except the sentiment within the organisation for him.
That sentiment is being eroded daily by his attitude towards the heirarchy in Wisconsin.
Hold on a second.
Brett Favre retired. Does anyone honestly believe that the Pack didn't want Favre to be starter next year? It's rubbish. It's an enormous fallacy, and it's even more baffling that the media genuinely seem to be playing along for some reason. A report by ESPN's Kevin Seifert claims that Favre contacted the team weeks after his decision and said that he had the fabled 'itch'. When the Packers attempted to get him to come back, however, Favre declined a meeting with Thompson and coach Mike McCarthy. If he had shown that he was serious, then the team would have at least known what was happening. As it turned out, the only QB on their roster was Aaron Rodgers.
So the Packers had a dilemma that had no 'right' answer. Sure they could wait for Favre to get another itch, but what if it doesn't come? The idea that the Packers were slave to Favre's whims is a worrying one. At what point did he become bigger than the franchise? Sure, he made the team great, but he didn't do it single handedly.
Ted Thompson made the right decision. He drafted two QB's this year, and promoted Aaron Rodgers to starter. It was the only decision that granted any kind of firm ground beneath the team's feet. If Favre had seriously considered the team's offer to return in March, then this would never have happened. People are enamoured with Favre, and the problem is that some people are actively politicking for his return at the expense of Rodgers. Here is a quote from NFL.com's Pat Kirwan:
The Rodgers era can wait, and if Rodgers doesn't understand that this issue is bigger than him that's too bad.
-NFL.com senior writer Pat Kirwan
What a thought. Aaron Rodgers should really accept that his career may never start. It's irresponsible, reckless journalism that does not deserve it's place on a major sports website. To state that a young man's livelihood is not as important as Brett Favre's 'itch', is to show that you have completely lost touch with reality.
Favre is a great man, and a great player, but this situation is leaving an ugly stain on his legacy. If he is traded, it is perhaps the best compromise for Favre and the Packers, but in reality, he has no leverage to get such an outcome, except the sentiment within the organisation for him.
That sentiment is being eroded daily by his attitude towards the heirarchy in Wisconsin.
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