Brett Favre’s reinstatement to the NFL was held up again Friday as the three-time MVP mulled getting paid not to play through a marketing deal with the Green Bay Packers that could resolve the standoff over his retirement.
The potential agreement, worth a reported $20 million over 10 years, might end Favre’s bid to return just months after retiring. It also would likely keep him from reporting to Packers training camp and a team that is not planning to start him at quarterback for the first time since 1992.
After talking to Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy about the marketing deal Wednesday, Favre confirmed he was considering it to ESPN on Thursday.
Packers coach Mike McCarthy made it clear Friday that, from the team’s perspective, the agreement would be more than a buyout to make an awkward situation go away. In fact, it’s been in the works for months. He first heard about it at Favre’s retirement news conference in March.
Meanwhile, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sat on Favre’s reinstatement letter for the fourth straight day, giving the two sides more time to resolve the situation.
Despite Favre’s tearful farewell to football, he now is considering a comeback.
The problem is that Green Bay hasn’t been eager to bring him back, with Aaron Rodgers taking over the starter’s role. The Packers also don’t want to release Favre, suspecting he would immediately sign with division rival Minnesota.
The Packers hold Favre’s rights until his current contract expires after the 2010 season.
Tensions have built between Favre and the team over the past several weeks. Earlier this week, Favre sent a letter to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell requesting to be reinstated from the team’s reserve/retired list.
Favre said in a text message to ESPN reporter Ed Werder Thursday night that the marketing deal might be the best idea.
Information from the Associated Press contributed to this report.