"I think it's come to a point where there needs to be some decisions made on behalf of the Packers, on behalf of Brett, on behalf of the fans," Goodell said.
Both sides have taken a major public-relations hit. The payment offer looks like a bribe from the Packers, and if Favre were to agree, his love of the green would seemingly eclipse his love of the game.
If the Packers open the quarterback competition, they will be going back on their word of sticking with Rodgers. In interviews, Favre has made it clear he doesn't think he should have to compete for the job.
Trade him to Minnesota, and Favre opens the season on "Monday Night Football" against his old team at Lambeau Field. If the Packers were to lose that game, there surely would be some fans calling for the firing of Green Bay General Manager Ted Thompson.
Tampa Bay, Baltimore and the New York Jets also have surfaced as possible landing places for Favre. He can nix a trade by simply refusing to show up for it.
For the moment at Packers camp -- and this could change at any time -- No. 4 will be No. 2.
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sam.farmer@latimes.com
