A ton of athletes, even if they know your name, pretend they don't.

A ton of athletes, even if they know your name, pretend they don't.

I reached out to [Brett Favre] early on; sent him some of my books and a letter. Then I had two or three arranged times with him, and was blown off. Then I sent him another letter, and he sent me a text, explaining that he didn't wish to talk. I'm not mad - it's his right, obviously. Plus, his family members were amazingly open and cool.

If I'd had covered [ Brett Favre] in Atlanta, I'd presume he'd go down as another Todd Marinovich. Talent out the gills, but lacking the control and discipline to make much of himself.

When I was covering baseball the Reds had a first baseman, Sean Casey. His nickname was "The Mayor" because he knew and connected with absolutely everyone. Incredibly lovely ... even invited Red writers to his wedding. And that never happens.

Dyan Favre, Brett's nephew, is also a gem. Not just a favorite person from the book - a favorite person, period. I actually wound up writing this about him. Simply a good, righteous man.

I'm not saying - in any way - that Donald Driver is lying or lacking sincerity. But I trust my reporting.