Thompson, McCarthy won't grant Favre's release

Well, legendary quarterback Brett Favre wants back in the NFL and now it's just a matter of when - and if - he will play next season.

After a teary press conference retirement in March, the winningest QB in history was reportedly wanting to make a comeback and he recently confirmed the rumor, asking his team, the Green Bay Packers, for unconditional release once it seemed like they would not take him back, according to ESPN.com.

The Pack has sunk a lot of time and money - and a draft pick - into young back-up quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The Green Bay Packers' general manager, Ted Thompson, and coach, Mike McCarthy, don't plan to grant Favre's request. If he does rejoin the team, they told The Associated Press, it won't be as the starting signal-caller.

But this tough Mississippi-bred QB, who once had his wisdom teeth removed without the use of Novocain due an addiction to pain-killers, will not accepting any backup roles and could very well be suiting up for another team next September - possibly the arch-rival Minnesota Vikings.

According to ESPN.com, Favre, who was placed on the reserve-retired list in late April, has three years and $39 million left on his contract with Green Bay. To be reinstated, Favre must apply through NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. That would force the Packers to activate the 16-year veteran.