Packers President Mark Murphy spoke to Packers' shareholders about a number of things at the team's annual meeting: Brett Favre (shocking that that name would come up, I know), the team's record last season, the economy's impact on team finances, and other topics.
One of the best summaries of the remarks is in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. You can read it here.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Favre to stay retired
According to the latest reports, Ol' #4 is not going to wear the funky ViQueen purple afterall.
You can read more for yourself here.
You can read more for yourself here.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Fans get creative with Favre the ViQueen
It's really quite interesting to see how fans vent as the day draws closer -- perhaps as early as tomorrow -- for Ol' #4 to don that funky purple. You know what I'm talkin' about. Brett finally says for certain that he's playing for the ViQueens this next season. You can almost hear him say, "Reputation and legacy be damned! I want to stick it to Ted Thompson no matter what!"
OK. Well, judging by radio call-in shows and even some national pundits and Hall of Fame QBs, Brett has already done a good deal of damage to himself. Yes, there are those who also say that if he wants to play, can play, and finds a team willing to let him play, more power to him. Always two sides.
But fans need a way to express their feelings about this, regardless of which side they come down on. And the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel is offering fans a way to use their creative abilities to submit images to a gallery showing Favre as a ViQueen. The range is from the rather vitriolic (look it up) to the favorable, although most tend to skew to the less-than-positive, shall we say.
But don't take my word for it. Check out the gallery here.
OK. Well, judging by radio call-in shows and even some national pundits and Hall of Fame QBs, Brett has already done a good deal of damage to himself. Yes, there are those who also say that if he wants to play, can play, and finds a team willing to let him play, more power to him. Always two sides.
But fans need a way to express their feelings about this, regardless of which side they come down on. And the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel is offering fans a way to use their creative abilities to submit images to a gallery showing Favre as a ViQueen. The range is from the rather vitriolic (look it up) to the favorable, although most tend to skew to the less-than-positive, shall we say.
But don't take my word for it. Check out the gallery here.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Jolly jolly again...for now
The felony drug charge against Packers DT Johnny Jolly was dismissed today by prosecutors in Harris County, TX. As noted in a post earlier this week here at Packerfansunited.com and in reports elsewhere, Jolly was driving a car in Houston last July in which a variety of not-so-good things were found, including evidence of codeine -- felony amounts, that is. Whether that was Jolly's or that of the friends he happened to be keeping that night is, apparently, one of the issues to be resolved.
And the prosecutors have let it be known that this will be resolved. Because while they have dismissed these charges, they also intend to refile them in a couple months. Huh? What? Why the dismiss/refile routine? The explanation of that maneuver is probably best left to attorneys, but one report cites Donna Hawkins, spokeswoman for the Harris County district attorney's office, as saying that the Houston Police Department recently acquired a new piece of equipment that measures the amount of codeine in a liquid. She indicated that after police technicians are trained on the device and accredited on testifying about its use and results the prosecutor's office intends to refile the second-degree felony charge against Jolly.
So, paraphrasing whoever it was...this one ain't over 'till the fat man walks.
You can read more about the Jolly case here.
Sportspyder Headline Snafus Continue
As noted here a few days ago, the Sportspyder bot that automatically updates the "Latest Headlines" in the righthand column is still occasionally pulling in some headlines for stories that appeared...well, a loooooong time ago. Somehow, it sees these as being posted by the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel now. I have no clue as to what is causing it, nor is there anything I can do about it. So, as I said the other day, if you see a few odd looking headlines -- such as referring to games from 1995 and players who retired 10 years ago as if they are still playing -- and care to take a stroll down memory lane, check 'em out. Otherwise, never mind.
And the prosecutors have let it be known that this will be resolved. Because while they have dismissed these charges, they also intend to refile them in a couple months. Huh? What? Why the dismiss/refile routine? The explanation of that maneuver is probably best left to attorneys, but one report cites Donna Hawkins, spokeswoman for the Harris County district attorney's office, as saying that the Houston Police Department recently acquired a new piece of equipment that measures the amount of codeine in a liquid. She indicated that after police technicians are trained on the device and accredited on testifying about its use and results the prosecutor's office intends to refile the second-degree felony charge against Jolly.
So, paraphrasing whoever it was...this one ain't over 'till the fat man walks.
You can read more about the Jolly case here.
Sportspyder Headline Snafus Continue
As noted here a few days ago, the Sportspyder bot that automatically updates the "Latest Headlines" in the righthand column is still occasionally pulling in some headlines for stories that appeared...well, a loooooong time ago. Somehow, it sees these as being posted by the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel now. I have no clue as to what is causing it, nor is there anything I can do about it. So, as I said the other day, if you see a few odd looking headlines -- such as referring to games from 1995 and players who retired 10 years ago as if they are still playing -- and care to take a stroll down memory lane, check 'em out. Otherwise, never mind.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
The view from the Driver's seat
Yes, Packer fans, it's time for the dean of the Packers' receiving corps, Donald Driver, to opine on a few topics. That would include Da Bearz, his buddy, Ol' #4, and by virtue of the latter, the ViQueens. Driver was being interviewed Tuesday on Sirius NFL Radio.
The SportsDay column by Bob Wolfley in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports bits of the interview. For example, Driver said that while Da Bearz might now have a QB in Jay Cutler, and other good pieces, they don't have a receiving corp that can go deep. That's what several pundits also said at the time of Cutler's acquisition. I recall one, in particular, who said basically that it was great that Da Bearz improved their quarterback situation, but asked who was Cutler going to throw to. Well said.
Driver also said he talks with Brett Favre on occasion but they haven't discussed how his going to the ViQueens will affect his Green Bay legacy. They mainly talk about how his arm is feeling, how the family is...that kind of thing.
Anyway, for more specifics of Driver's comments, check out the article here.
Speaking of Favre...
As you've no doubt already heard -- it was like "Breaking News!" -- Brett said yesterday that he would make a decision about wearing that funky ViQueens purple by July 30.
Do you really think he's not going to return? Let's see a show of hands...
The SportsDay column by Bob Wolfley in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports bits of the interview. For example, Driver said that while Da Bearz might now have a QB in Jay Cutler, and other good pieces, they don't have a receiving corp that can go deep. That's what several pundits also said at the time of Cutler's acquisition. I recall one, in particular, who said basically that it was great that Da Bearz improved their quarterback situation, but asked who was Cutler going to throw to. Well said.
Driver also said he talks with Brett Favre on occasion but they haven't discussed how his going to the ViQueens will affect his Green Bay legacy. They mainly talk about how his arm is feeling, how the family is...that kind of thing.
Anyway, for more specifics of Driver's comments, check out the article here.
Speaking of Favre...
As you've no doubt already heard -- it was like "Breaking News!" -- Brett said yesterday that he would make a decision about wearing that funky ViQueens purple by July 30.
Do you really think he's not going to return? Let's see a show of hands...
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Maybe not so Jolly
That's going to be a question both short and long-term for the Packers: will their fourth-year defensive end, Johnny Jolly, be available to them in the future? Maybe not. Maybe not so Jolly after all.
This is one of those stories you hate to report as a Packer fan. It's about a young man with a world of potential who made it from a not-so-great environment in his hometown of Houston to the NFL. That's the good part of the story. The negative side is that, as with most of us, old habits die hard...especially when you go home and hang with the ol' buds. When you're a young man with cash in your pocket and friends willing to help you spend it...things can sometimes go awry. Even if it's just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people.
That last statement is basically what Jolly's attorneys will be arguing as Jolly goes on trial this week, charged with possession of a controlled substance (codeine...lots of it), which is a second-degree felony that carries a sentence from two to 20 years if he's convicted. (By the way, apparently Houston has had an especially nasty problem with codeine abuse since the 1990s.)
All this comes as Jolly goes into the last year of his contract with the Pack. If convicted, his contract situation will obviously take care of itself. If not, based upon apparently long-held reservations the Packers have had about him, he could be traded or released unless he gets his act together.
And that's what you really hope. You want to root for the underdog, the kid who made it good, to get his act together in all aspects of his life. It's bigger than football (did I say that?). It's life.
If you want to read more about the details of Jolly's current situation and the circumstances surrounding his arrest about a year ago, check out this article from the Milwaukee Journal- Sentinel. If you're curious to know more about the codeine abuse problem in Houston, then check here for more information.
Latest Headlines snafu
Normally, the "Latest Headlines" area in the righthand column behaves, well, normally. However, if you happen to see a few "recent" story headlines referencing Thigpen and Titletown, and click on the links, you'll see stories supposedly posted to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel yesterday, July 13. However, they are really reports of a Packers game -- albeit an important one -- from 1995! Not sure what's up with this, folks. I don't control that particular area...it's a "bot" type thing. The only thing I can think of is that perhaps someone on the Journal-Sentinel staff was archiving or doing something with these stories which seemed -- to the all-knowing bot -- to be new because of the time of posting...regardless of the date of the original article. But if you want to take an unscheduled walk down memory lane, give it a go.
Hmmm...very weird. Anyway, didn't want you to think it was a mistake on this end. Blame it on the bot!
This is one of those stories you hate to report as a Packer fan. It's about a young man with a world of potential who made it from a not-so-great environment in his hometown of Houston to the NFL. That's the good part of the story. The negative side is that, as with most of us, old habits die hard...especially when you go home and hang with the ol' buds. When you're a young man with cash in your pocket and friends willing to help you spend it...things can sometimes go awry. Even if it's just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people.
That last statement is basically what Jolly's attorneys will be arguing as Jolly goes on trial this week, charged with possession of a controlled substance (codeine...lots of it), which is a second-degree felony that carries a sentence from two to 20 years if he's convicted. (By the way, apparently Houston has had an especially nasty problem with codeine abuse since the 1990s.)
All this comes as Jolly goes into the last year of his contract with the Pack. If convicted, his contract situation will obviously take care of itself. If not, based upon apparently long-held reservations the Packers have had about him, he could be traded or released unless he gets his act together.
And that's what you really hope. You want to root for the underdog, the kid who made it good, to get his act together in all aspects of his life. It's bigger than football (did I say that?). It's life.
If you want to read more about the details of Jolly's current situation and the circumstances surrounding his arrest about a year ago, check out this article from the Milwaukee Journal- Sentinel. If you're curious to know more about the codeine abuse problem in Houston, then check here for more information.
Latest Headlines snafu
Normally, the "Latest Headlines" area in the righthand column behaves, well, normally. However, if you happen to see a few "recent" story headlines referencing Thigpen and Titletown, and click on the links, you'll see stories supposedly posted to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel yesterday, July 13. However, they are really reports of a Packers game -- albeit an important one -- from 1995! Not sure what's up with this, folks. I don't control that particular area...it's a "bot" type thing. The only thing I can think of is that perhaps someone on the Journal-Sentinel staff was archiving or doing something with these stories which seemed -- to the all-knowing bot -- to be new because of the time of posting...regardless of the date of the original article. But if you want to take an unscheduled walk down memory lane, give it a go.
Hmmm...very weird. Anyway, didn't want you to think it was a mistake on this end. Blame it on the bot!
Thursday, July 09, 2009
What the Favre? Part 17
The Minneapolis Star Tribune is today reporting that, "Vikings trainer Eric Sugarman was in Hattiesburg, Miss., on Wednesday to check on the physical condition of quarterback Brett Favre, another indication the veteran NFL quarterback is headed for the Vikings."
The article goes on to state that, "A Vikings source who has been in contact with Favre recently reported that the surgery seven weeks ago was a complete success" and that "Unless Favre changes his mind or there is a problem agreeing on a contract, there seems little doubt Favre will be in uniform when Vikings training camp opens in Mankato on July 31."
Apparently, the contract might already be agreed to and while light on guarantees is heavy with incentives.
You can read more here.
It used to be -- OK, still is -- that if the Packers won only two games each year it should be versus Da Bearz. Minnesota got added to that list a while ago now. This year, with Ol' #4 still trying to prove a point to Ted Thompson, we have to once again emphasize the latter.
Brett wants the two games with the Pack so bad he can taste it. So bad he went under the knife to repair his arm. So bad that he's willing to do permanent damage to his reputation. So bad that he's willing to wear that funky purple. The Packers need to allow Brett to vent in those games. Because his need for vengeance will make him overreach and overplay. And we all know what happens when that happens. The Packers can darn near put those two games versus the ViQueens in the "W" column right now.
How's that taste, Brett?
The article goes on to state that, "A Vikings source who has been in contact with Favre recently reported that the surgery seven weeks ago was a complete success" and that "Unless Favre changes his mind or there is a problem agreeing on a contract, there seems little doubt Favre will be in uniform when Vikings training camp opens in Mankato on July 31."
Apparently, the contract might already be agreed to and while light on guarantees is heavy with incentives.
You can read more here.
It used to be -- OK, still is -- that if the Packers won only two games each year it should be versus Da Bearz. Minnesota got added to that list a while ago now. This year, with Ol' #4 still trying to prove a point to Ted Thompson, we have to once again emphasize the latter.
Brett wants the two games with the Pack so bad he can taste it. So bad he went under the knife to repair his arm. So bad that he's willing to do permanent damage to his reputation. So bad that he's willing to wear that funky purple. The Packers need to allow Brett to vent in those games. Because his need for vengeance will make him overreach and overplay. And we all know what happens when that happens. The Packers can darn near put those two games versus the ViQueens in the "W" column right now.
How's that taste, Brett?
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
This is what Packer fans will do
If you are a Packer fan -- and I'm assuming are (or wish you were) -- you already know that you are part of the best fans in all of sports. We are a hardcore lot. Especially when it comes to getting or keeping tickets...unlike, as I mentioned in my earlier Favre post of the day, ViQueens fans who can't even sell out a playoff game for cripes sake. And, of course, who also now have to plumb the depths of discarded and twice-retired Green Bay players in an effort to boost their ticket sales.
But enough about the fickle fans in the funky purple. Back to some real fans...
On 620WTMJ radio's Sports Central with Bill Michaels tonight, he was doing a segment on the impact the economy is having on sports franchises and fans. He invited listeners to call in to say how things are affecting them. The first caller said that his family, beginning with his father, had 124 season Packers tickets. One hundred twenty-four! He told Michaels that he owned a couple rental apartment buildings and he sold one just so he could still afford to keep all those tickets. The second caller said he had 24 season tickets and owned two businesses. Said the one business needed the tickets as part of entertaining clients. The other business didn't. Said he actually closed down the second business so he could put all the resources into maintaining the full set of tickets.
As Michaels said after listening to these two callers, when he had the chance to move to Milwaukee's WTMJ from his previous gig in Cincinnati he jumped on it because he knew how hardcore the Packers fans were.
Indeed.
It's good to be a Packer fan!
But enough about the fickle fans in the funky purple. Back to some real fans...
On 620WTMJ radio's Sports Central with Bill Michaels tonight, he was doing a segment on the impact the economy is having on sports franchises and fans. He invited listeners to call in to say how things are affecting them. The first caller said that his family, beginning with his father, had 124 season Packers tickets. One hundred twenty-four! He told Michaels that he owned a couple rental apartment buildings and he sold one just so he could still afford to keep all those tickets. The second caller said he had 24 season tickets and owned two businesses. Said the one business needed the tickets as part of entertaining clients. The other business didn't. Said he actually closed down the second business so he could put all the resources into maintaining the full set of tickets.
As Michaels said after listening to these two callers, when he had the chance to move to Milwaukee's WTMJ from his previous gig in Cincinnati he jumped on it because he knew how hardcore the Packers fans were.
Indeed.
It's good to be a Packer fan!
What the Favre? Part 16
In our continuing series...yeah, I know...I'm getting sick of this too...
Profootballtalk.com is reporting today that the announcement about Ol' #4's signing with the ViQueens will occur sometime the week of July 6. Why then? According to the report, 'Queens head coach Brad Childress is back from his Alaska fishing trip. Okaaaaaay.
What else? Oh...the 'Queens -- get this -- begin selling single game tix later that week. Single game tickets! (Insert horse laugh here.) Have you ever heard of such a thing? Not in Packerland, kiddies. There haven't been single game ticket sales for a Packer game since the frozen tundra last thawed. So...apparently the 'Queens need a little help in that department. Heck, any team that struggled to sell out several games last season -- including the first home playoff game in eight years -- needs some sort of help, I guess. Enter Brett Favre.
But here's a tip, 'Queens fans: not even Ol' #4 can make that funky purple look good.
Check out the Profootballtalk.com report here.
Profootballtalk.com is reporting today that the announcement about Ol' #4's signing with the ViQueens will occur sometime the week of July 6. Why then? According to the report, 'Queens head coach Brad Childress is back from his Alaska fishing trip. Okaaaaaay.
What else? Oh...the 'Queens -- get this -- begin selling single game tix later that week. Single game tickets! (Insert horse laugh here.) Have you ever heard of such a thing? Not in Packerland, kiddies. There haven't been single game ticket sales for a Packer game since the frozen tundra last thawed. So...apparently the 'Queens need a little help in that department. Heck, any team that struggled to sell out several games last season -- including the first home playoff game in eight years -- needs some sort of help, I guess. Enter Brett Favre.
But here's a tip, 'Queens fans: not even Ol' #4 can make that funky purple look good.
Check out the Profootballtalk.com report here.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Another HoF QB questions Favre's antics
Former Kansas City Chiefs QB and Hall of Famer, Len Dawson, said at an NFL rookie symposium that he never wanted to "pull a Brett Favre." And what, precisely, is it to "pull a Brett Favre"? That would be, well, doing what he's doing, of course. When asked about Favre's reasoning for wanting to come back and play with the ViQueens, Dawson said, "To be in Green Bay all those years and then go to Minnesota, that will arouse a lot of people. … This is a strong rival, not just a rival." Asked if he would have ever thought about playing for a division rival such as Oakland or Denver, Dawson reportedly smiled and said simply, "No, not at all."
And that, quite naturally, would be the correct answer. Perhaps someone should pass that along to Brett as he sure hasn't quite figured it out for himself yet.
Dawson questioned Ol' #4's motivation for wanting to continue to play, especially the supposed revenge factor. "Why? It's a game. Why revenge? I don't know all the circumstances about what happened in Green Bay." Referring to the reported $20 million marketing deal the Pack offered Favre to stay retired last season, Dawson said, "Look at how much money they wanted to give him to stay home. A lot of money. It's not a bad offer, but he didn't need the money. There was something else and that's probably what spurred him."
Dawson said even with all the talent around him, Favre has to know when it's time to call it a day. "I played 19 years and knew that I wasn't the same quarterback that I was early in my career," Dawson said. "You know, you may be kidding yourself a little, but you know. He's not the same quarterback he was in the past. He can't be."
You can read more of Dawson's comments here or here.
And that, quite naturally, would be the correct answer. Perhaps someone should pass that along to Brett as he sure hasn't quite figured it out for himself yet.
Dawson questioned Ol' #4's motivation for wanting to continue to play, especially the supposed revenge factor. "Why? It's a game. Why revenge? I don't know all the circumstances about what happened in Green Bay." Referring to the reported $20 million marketing deal the Pack offered Favre to stay retired last season, Dawson said, "Look at how much money they wanted to give him to stay home. A lot of money. It's not a bad offer, but he didn't need the money. There was something else and that's probably what spurred him."
Dawson said even with all the talent around him, Favre has to know when it's time to call it a day. "I played 19 years and knew that I wasn't the same quarterback that I was early in my career," Dawson said. "You know, you may be kidding yourself a little, but you know. He's not the same quarterback he was in the past. He can't be."
You can read more of Dawson's comments here or here.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Aaron Rodgers: Breakout Player of the Year in NFC North
That's right, kids. ESPN's John Clayton said on today's edition of NFL Live that he believes the Pack's Aaron Rodgers will be the breakout player of the year in the NFC North. He preceded that comment by qualifying it along the lines of, "If he didn't already have a breakout year last year...". Well said, Mr. Clayton. Packer fans know that Mr. Rodgers had a great first season as the starting QB. Clayton noted that one of the reasons Rodgers will have his breakout year this season is because the coaching staff -- as reported here previously -- will allow Rodgers to have more control over the plays, especially going down the final stretch of a game.
Even Chris Carter, the former ViQueens receiver, said the Packers will be the '08 non-playoff team most likely to make the playoffs this season. Carter specifically mentioned that as good as Rodgers was last year, he'll be even better this season.
With all the buzz about Ol' #4 going to the 'Queens, Jay Cutler running Da Bearz' offense, and rookie QB Matthew Stafford securing his retirement before even throwing a pass for the Lions, Rodgers seems to have been overlooked by the media in talk about the NFC North. One gets the sense that Rodgers probably doesn't mind flying under the radar a bit. He performed well last season despite the media circus around the Favre situation that was present especially at the start of the season. With a great first year under his belt, we can expect even more from Rodgers in his second year. Apparently, we're now not the only ones.
Even Chris Carter, the former ViQueens receiver, said the Packers will be the '08 non-playoff team most likely to make the playoffs this season. Carter specifically mentioned that as good as Rodgers was last year, he'll be even better this season.
With all the buzz about Ol' #4 going to the 'Queens, Jay Cutler running Da Bearz' offense, and rookie QB Matthew Stafford securing his retirement before even throwing a pass for the Lions, Rodgers seems to have been overlooked by the media in talk about the NFC North. One gets the sense that Rodgers probably doesn't mind flying under the radar a bit. He performed well last season despite the media circus around the Favre situation that was present especially at the start of the season. With a great first year under his belt, we can expect even more from Rodgers in his second year. Apparently, we're now not the only ones.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Stephen Colbert on Favre
Yes, this is yet another post about Ol' #4. But it doesn't really fit the now ubiquitous "What the Favre" series; there's nothing really about Brett Favre's surgery, signing, etc.
Or is there...? Hmmm...
Well, at least this one comes from that noted social and sports commentator, Stephen Colbert, on last night's Colbert Report on Comedy Central. For those of you who missed it, check it out here. To get to the part about Favre, forward the video to about the 3 minute 40 second mark. Priceless on so many fronts. Including a good dig at the ViQueens, too.
One of Colbert's best lines: "Of course, Green Bay fans would love to help Favre become a Viking by putting him on a boat and setting it on fire."
And: "Of course, there is one catch: you'll have to find an employer desperate enough to hire an unproductive, injury-prone, senior citizen. I'd start by calling the Minnesota Vikings." You'll need to pay attention to the context for that comment, but even on its own it stands up pretty well.
Stephen Colbert: Truthiness personified!
Or is there...? Hmmm...
Well, at least this one comes from that noted social and sports commentator, Stephen Colbert, on last night's Colbert Report on Comedy Central. For those of you who missed it, check it out here. To get to the part about Favre, forward the video to about the 3 minute 40 second mark. Priceless on so many fronts. Including a good dig at the ViQueens, too.
One of Colbert's best lines: "Of course, Green Bay fans would love to help Favre become a Viking by putting him on a boat and setting it on fire."
And: "Of course, there is one catch: you'll have to find an employer desperate enough to hire an unproductive, injury-prone, senior citizen. I'd start by calling the Minnesota Vikings." You'll need to pay attention to the context for that comment, but even on its own it stands up pretty well.
Stephen Colbert: Truthiness personified!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
What the Favre? Part 15 - Finished?
620WTMJ radio out of Milwaukee this morning picked up a report from WCCO radio in Minneapolis that Ol' #4 -- Brett Favre -- has in fact agreed to contract terms with the ViQueens. The same story appears at ProFootballTalk.com. The contract is said to be heavy with incentives. (Do you think as part of those terms that Brett agreed to play for free if he could just beat the Pack twice so his stick-it-to-Ted-Thompson vendetta would be sated?)
While this deal has yet to be officially announced, the reports state that the 'Queens equipment manager has already ordered jerseys with #4 and Favre's name. Favre and #4 in that (shudder!) funky ViQueens purple...eeeeewwwwwwwww! Oh yeah, John David Booty currently has the #4. Sorry, kid. You had it.
Remember that on Sunday, Favre's agent Bus Cook was still denying that any deal had been done. But, the WCCO reports says that, "ProFootballTalk.com speculated the announcement will come Fourth of July weekend, when a lot of media folks are on vacation to minimize the circus atmosphere." Yeah...right.
Supposedly, barring unforeseen circumstances, Favre will be at the 'Queens training camp when it commences in late July.
You can read the WCCO story here (complete with a faked SI cover showing Favre in 'Queens purple...warning: do not view on a full stomach), and the ProFootballTalk.com bit here.
Favre rated as NFL's biggest diva
FoxSports.com published an article on the NFL's biggest divas. Guess who beat out such stalwarts as Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco? Yep, Ol' #4. Here's the take on Brett by FoxSports.com's Adrian Hasenmayer: "This guy has been waffling about retirement for half a decade now, even holding several hostages along the way in the form of Green Bay, New York, Tampa and Minnesota. We've already lived through two official retirement press conferences — one tearful but none believable. Yet he keeps coming back because of the spiteful torch he carries for his former team. It's so intense that Favre's been romancing the Packers' most-hated rival for two straight years, generating enough double-talk from his agent James "Bus" Cook to fill all 32 NFL stadiums with hot air. Clearly, unless Brett gets what he wants, he will never go away."
You can check Brett out, along with the other league divas, here.
Greg Jennings deal imminent
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel is reporting that the Packers and WR Greg Jennings have all but completed a contract extension that will keep him in Green Bay through 2012 and make him one of the highest paid receivers in the league at nearly $9 million annually.
This is great news, as Jennings is obviously one of the best young receivers in the league. And while Donald Driver is still the dean of the Packers' receiving squad, Jennings is arguably now its best receiver. With QB Aaron Rodgers having a great year as starter under his belt, and being given more flexibility this season by the coaching staff to be his own man, this offense is set to take off. (Just one guy's opinion, of course.)
You can read more here.
While this deal has yet to be officially announced, the reports state that the 'Queens equipment manager has already ordered jerseys with #4 and Favre's name. Favre and #4 in that (shudder!) funky ViQueens purple...eeeeewwwwwwwww! Oh yeah, John David Booty currently has the #4. Sorry, kid. You had it.
Remember that on Sunday, Favre's agent Bus Cook was still denying that any deal had been done. But, the WCCO reports says that, "ProFootballTalk.com speculated the announcement will come Fourth of July weekend, when a lot of media folks are on vacation to minimize the circus atmosphere." Yeah...right.
Supposedly, barring unforeseen circumstances, Favre will be at the 'Queens training camp when it commences in late July.
You can read the WCCO story here (complete with a faked SI cover showing Favre in 'Queens purple...warning: do not view on a full stomach), and the ProFootballTalk.com bit here.
Favre rated as NFL's biggest diva
FoxSports.com published an article on the NFL's biggest divas. Guess who beat out such stalwarts as Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco? Yep, Ol' #4. Here's the take on Brett by FoxSports.com's Adrian Hasenmayer: "This guy has been waffling about retirement for half a decade now, even holding several hostages along the way in the form of Green Bay, New York, Tampa and Minnesota. We've already lived through two official retirement press conferences — one tearful but none believable. Yet he keeps coming back because of the spiteful torch he carries for his former team. It's so intense that Favre's been romancing the Packers' most-hated rival for two straight years, generating enough double-talk from his agent James "Bus" Cook to fill all 32 NFL stadiums with hot air. Clearly, unless Brett gets what he wants, he will never go away."
You can check Brett out, along with the other league divas, here.
Greg Jennings deal imminent
The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel is reporting that the Packers and WR Greg Jennings have all but completed a contract extension that will keep him in Green Bay through 2012 and make him one of the highest paid receivers in the league at nearly $9 million annually.
This is great news, as Jennings is obviously one of the best young receivers in the league. And while Donald Driver is still the dean of the Packers' receiving squad, Jennings is arguably now its best receiver. With QB Aaron Rodgers having a great year as starter under his belt, and being given more flexibility this season by the coaching staff to be his own man, this offense is set to take off. (Just one guy's opinion, of course.)
You can read more here.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
What the Favre? Part 14
Lest you think that this is all we talk about here, rest assured as soon as there is anything of substance regarding the Packers to report on or pass along, we'll do so. (Just check below for news about signings and minicamp, for example.)
But when the circus is in town, you want to watch, right? And there is still no bigger circus than that surrounding Ol' #4, Brett Favre, and his potential un-un-retirement. Will his arm heal enough from his recent surgery for him to play for the ViQueens this season? That's the only thing really standing between Brett and that funky purple outfit (by the way, when the apparel looks like that, does it even really rise to the level of a uniform???).
But perhaps the arm thing isn't really the question at all. According to sports columnist Michael Hunt's piece in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, maybe it's a bit about the money, too. (Me, I still think it's more about Brett's still-simmering need for revenge on Packers GM Ted Thompson.) But Hunt writes that the 'Queens should be careful what they wish for. And that, as loyal Packer fans, we should actually enjoy this spectacle should it come to pass.
But why have me tell you? Check out Hunt's column here. Definitely worth the read.
Draft signings begin
When it comes to signing draft picks it usually goes from the bottom up. So, predictably, the Packers have signed three of their late-round draft picks first: LB Brad Jones, CB Brandon Underwood and DE Jarius Wynn. Terms were not disclosed. The Pack also signed undrafted TE Devin Frischknecht from Washington State.
Minicamp set
All five minicamp practices, starting next Monday June 22, will be open to the public weather permitting. The first session gets underway at 10:15 a.m. on Clarke Hinkle Field. If weather doesn't cooperate, sorry folks, the Packers go to their indoor faciility and you don't.
The first two days of practices run at 10:15 a.m. and 3 p.m., although head coach McCarthy sometimes cancels the Tuesday afternoon session for a team-building event. Wednesday is the final day for the mandatory minicamp and it concludes with the 10:15 a.m. practice.
But when the circus is in town, you want to watch, right? And there is still no bigger circus than that surrounding Ol' #4, Brett Favre, and his potential un-un-retirement. Will his arm heal enough from his recent surgery for him to play for the ViQueens this season? That's the only thing really standing between Brett and that funky purple outfit (by the way, when the apparel looks like that, does it even really rise to the level of a uniform???).
But perhaps the arm thing isn't really the question at all. According to sports columnist Michael Hunt's piece in today's Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, maybe it's a bit about the money, too. (Me, I still think it's more about Brett's still-simmering need for revenge on Packers GM Ted Thompson.) But Hunt writes that the 'Queens should be careful what they wish for. And that, as loyal Packer fans, we should actually enjoy this spectacle should it come to pass.
But why have me tell you? Check out Hunt's column here. Definitely worth the read.
Draft signings begin
When it comes to signing draft picks it usually goes from the bottom up. So, predictably, the Packers have signed three of their late-round draft picks first: LB Brad Jones, CB Brandon Underwood and DE Jarius Wynn. Terms were not disclosed. The Pack also signed undrafted TE Devin Frischknecht from Washington State.
Minicamp set
All five minicamp practices, starting next Monday June 22, will be open to the public weather permitting. The first session gets underway at 10:15 a.m. on Clarke Hinkle Field. If weather doesn't cooperate, sorry folks, the Packers go to their indoor faciility and you don't.
The first two days of practices run at 10:15 a.m. and 3 p.m., although head coach McCarthy sometimes cancels the Tuesday afternoon session for a team-building event. Wednesday is the final day for the mandatory minicamp and it concludes with the 10:15 a.m. practice.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
What the Favre? Part 13
For those who didn't or couldn't catch Brett Favre's interview on HBO's "Joe Buck Live" last night, here's part one. If the second half of the interview gets posted, you'll find it here.
Monday, June 15, 2009
What the Favre? Part 12
Here's the running transcript of Ol' #4's interview on tonight's premier episode of "Joe Buck Live" on HBO, courtesy of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Check it out for yourself here.
The key things to come out of the interview are: that Favre had surgery a couple weeks ago on his throwing arm; he's talked with and met with ViQueens coaches and staff; he spoke about himself and the 'Queens in the form of the collective "we"; if the arm returns to anywhere near form he'll be playing this season...and for the ViQueens.
Oh, and while you're checking out the transcript at the Journal-Sentinel site you may wish to check out some of the readers' comments that follow it. Yikes!
Check it out for yourself here.
The key things to come out of the interview are: that Favre had surgery a couple weeks ago on his throwing arm; he's talked with and met with ViQueens coaches and staff; he spoke about himself and the 'Queens in the form of the collective "we"; if the arm returns to anywhere near form he'll be playing this season...and for the ViQueens.
Oh, and while you're checking out the transcript at the Journal-Sentinel site you may wish to check out some of the readers' comments that follow it. Yikes!
What the Favre? Part 11
For those of you who really can't get enough of this, how about hearing what Brett Favre himself has to say about what he's up to lately in retirement? In a live, televised interview, no less?
For those readers who are HBO subscribers, you can do so tonight at 8 p.m. Central. Ol' #4 will be on the debut episode of sportscaster Joe Buck's new show, which is shockingly called "Joe Buck Live." Depending on how arrangements worked out, Favre will either be on stage with Buck before a live studio audience or will be interviewed via satellite. What's your bet?
For those non-HBO subscribers, my guess is you can probably find this tomorrow somewhere on HBO's website or, barring that, check YouTube...you know it's gonna be available somewhere. And, of course, print commentary no doubt will be available by the truckload. Maybe even here.
Enjoy.
For those readers who are HBO subscribers, you can do so tonight at 8 p.m. Central. Ol' #4 will be on the debut episode of sportscaster Joe Buck's new show, which is shockingly called "Joe Buck Live." Depending on how arrangements worked out, Favre will either be on stage with Buck before a live studio audience or will be interviewed via satellite. What's your bet?
For those non-HBO subscribers, my guess is you can probably find this tomorrow somewhere on HBO's website or, barring that, check YouTube...you know it's gonna be available somewhere. And, of course, print commentary no doubt will be available by the truckload. Maybe even here.
Enjoy.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
What the Favre? Part 10
When I started this series of posts I actually didn't realize it would be a series of posts. Really.
But here we have the latest report from ESPN stating that sometime in the next few days a Minnesota ViQueens "trainer and a member of the team's coaching staff intend to travel to Hattiesburg, Miss., to work with retired quarterback Brett Favre...".
Well isn't that special?
With summer training camp just about 7 weeks away, the 'Queens want to know this about Mr. Favre: can he or can't he?
Here we have a team -- that would be the ViQueens -- that is so desperate for quarterback help that they are looking to a 39-year-old future Hall of Famer who has had recent bicep surgery to fix a throwing arm that is no longer the canon it once was and who by a growing number of assessments should retire to his lawn tractor. And we also have this same QB who is so desperate for revenge on the GM of the team who took him at his word when he said he was going to retire (the first time) that he not only wants to come out of retirement (for the second time) but actually had surgery to try to be able to do so, and to play with a divisional rival just so he can play the Packers twice.
Hmmm...what's the common denominator in the above? Oh, yeah, desperation. By both the ViQueens and Ol' #4. That usually doesn't work so well, does it?
Here's the ESPN story.
But here we have the latest report from ESPN stating that sometime in the next few days a Minnesota ViQueens "trainer and a member of the team's coaching staff intend to travel to Hattiesburg, Miss., to work with retired quarterback Brett Favre...".
Well isn't that special?
With summer training camp just about 7 weeks away, the 'Queens want to know this about Mr. Favre: can he or can't he?
Here we have a team -- that would be the ViQueens -- that is so desperate for quarterback help that they are looking to a 39-year-old future Hall of Famer who has had recent bicep surgery to fix a throwing arm that is no longer the canon it once was and who by a growing number of assessments should retire to his lawn tractor. And we also have this same QB who is so desperate for revenge on the GM of the team who took him at his word when he said he was going to retire (the first time) that he not only wants to come out of retirement (for the second time) but actually had surgery to try to be able to do so, and to play with a divisional rival just so he can play the Packers twice.
Hmmm...what's the common denominator in the above? Oh, yeah, desperation. By both the ViQueens and Ol' #4. That usually doesn't work so well, does it?
Here's the ESPN story.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
What the Favre? Part 9
ESPN is today reporting that Ol' #4 did in fact have surgery on his torn bicep tendon sometime in the last month so that he could return for a 19th season in the NFL...with, of course, the ViQueens. According to the report, Brett has reportedly been throwing on a limited basis since then, but "Favre remains unable to make a commitment because subsequent throwing sessions indicate the shoulder is not yet 100 percent."
The article continues, "Favre's determination to play can be measured by his willingness to undergo arthroscopic surgery... inasmuch sources said the quarterback wanted to avoid any procedure." Yes, but his well-documented and now fanatical desire to stick it to Packers GM Ted Thompson, as has been noted here previously, seemingly trumps common sense with Brett.
Can only keep repeating, how very sad.
Read the ESPN article here if you can still stomach this nonsense.
The article continues, "Favre's determination to play can be measured by his willingness to undergo arthroscopic surgery... inasmuch sources said the quarterback wanted to avoid any procedure." Yes, but his well-documented and now fanatical desire to stick it to Packers GM Ted Thompson, as has been noted here previously, seemingly trumps common sense with Brett.
Can only keep repeating, how very sad.
Read the ESPN article here if you can still stomach this nonsense.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Sponsor patches? We don't need no stinkin' patches!
Here's one of those ideas that you just knew was going to raise its ugly head sooner or later: sponsor patches on player jerseys.
Company logos are so prevalent on some athletic jerseys -- notably those outside the good ol' USA -- that you have a hard time sometimes actually knowing what the name of the team is (OK, that would really likely be more due to the fact that you are only an occasional viewer of that particular sport, but you get my point). Women's pro basketball in the U.S., though, is one of the latest to fall prey to this advertising onslaught.
But now...now!...our esteemed National Football League has deemed it suitable for teams to sell sponsor spaces on teams' practice jerseys. Not game jerseys. Practice jerseys. It's all about the money, of course. Wanting to maximize revenue opportunities. And who really sees practice jerseys anyway? Well, yeah, all those folks who show up during summer training camp, I guess. But since most teams also sell replica practice jerseys, are you going to want to pay to walk around promoting not only the Packers -- which is absolutely the whole point, right?! -- but, say, Ed's Cheese-a-rama & Bait Emporium (which, I highly recommend if you stumble on it in the great north woods, by the way...just kidding...but I wouldn't be surprised if there's one up there somewhere, either).
Thus begins the slippery slope: today, the practice jerseys are for sale and tomorrow the game jerseys are for sale. Do you want to see the beloved Green 'n' Gold jersey pimped out to the highest bidder? Not me.
But regrettably, the Packers are already looking into the practice jersey sponsor possibility. (Sigh) You can read more about this move here.
My opinion: Patches? We don't need no stinkin' patches!
Company logos are so prevalent on some athletic jerseys -- notably those outside the good ol' USA -- that you have a hard time sometimes actually knowing what the name of the team is (OK, that would really likely be more due to the fact that you are only an occasional viewer of that particular sport, but you get my point). Women's pro basketball in the U.S., though, is one of the latest to fall prey to this advertising onslaught.
But now...now!...our esteemed National Football League has deemed it suitable for teams to sell sponsor spaces on teams' practice jerseys. Not game jerseys. Practice jerseys. It's all about the money, of course. Wanting to maximize revenue opportunities. And who really sees practice jerseys anyway? Well, yeah, all those folks who show up during summer training camp, I guess. But since most teams also sell replica practice jerseys, are you going to want to pay to walk around promoting not only the Packers -- which is absolutely the whole point, right?! -- but, say, Ed's Cheese-a-rama & Bait Emporium (which, I highly recommend if you stumble on it in the great north woods, by the way...just kidding...but I wouldn't be surprised if there's one up there somewhere, either).
Thus begins the slippery slope: today, the practice jerseys are for sale and tomorrow the game jerseys are for sale. Do you want to see the beloved Green 'n' Gold jersey pimped out to the highest bidder? Not me.
But regrettably, the Packers are already looking into the practice jersey sponsor possibility. (Sigh) You can read more about this move here.
My opinion: Patches? We don't need no stinkin' patches!
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