To retire on not to retire, that is the question.

By cowgirl | Wednesday, August 19, 2009 | ( 7 )

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So Brett Favre is/is not going to play this season for the Minnesota Vikings. He cannot let go. The Packers front office offered Brett 20 million dollars when he first left Green Bay to not come back into the league. He asked them to leave.

When an NFL player has been on the field since he was 8 years old, it's no wonder they often can't walk away.

Mark Shlereth of the Denver Broncos had 29 surgeries during his career. He said when he couldn't play, he felt ashamed. "Owners own, coaches coach, players play." That's why so many players play while injured. It defines them.

Joe Montana went to the chiefs after being released from the 49ers. He told Dan Patrick last week, "If I could run to my front door, I think I could still play."

Emmitt Smith went to the Cardinals. Bruce Smith went to Washington. Jerry Rice went
to the Raiders. The list is endless. Players want to play.

It's not about the money for the great players. It's the love of the game, the competition. John Elway's emotional retirement speech is one I'll never forget.

Retirement comes too quickly for these great warriors. They are still young men. They are still just as competitive. What's next? Golf?

The divorce rate among retired NFL players is 75%!
An NFL career is fleeting. Where did the time go? These great athletes need a plan B. Something to fill the void after the game passes them by. But I’ll bet nothing is ever as satisfying.
Think about it Maybin. You’re holding out for more money? Before you know it, you’ll be willing to play for any team that will have you. The clock is ticking……….

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	No.1 MikeBullock	10:24 AM 08/19/2009

	Good article, Cowgirl. I think when you've spent your whole life (some start as early as 4 years old) only doing one thing,...


	No.2 bILZrok	10:30 AM 08/19/2009

	Nicely done cowgirl. Throw Thurman going to the hated Dolphins onto that list of guys hanging on when enough is enough. They...


	No.3 Goose	11:40 AM 08/19/2009

	Cowgirl---very nicely put.... I can only imagine how the Packer fans feel---it would be like Kelly going to play for the Phins,...