Vikings Brett Favre is NFLs cash cow

If Brett Favre returns to the Vikings — and it appears now, more than ever, he will — don’t underestimate owner Zygi Wilf in all this. Wilf needs Favre more than Favre needs the Vikings. And Wilf could be willing to pay the future hall of fame quarterback whatever it takes to lure him back. Wilf needs Favre to help the Vikings get a new stadium. Favre not only will help the Vikings win, but he is such a high-profile personality that he will create interest. Plus, the Vikings don’t enjoy the revenues many other NFL teams do, and Favre brings in money while increasing the profile of the franchise. Favre is signed for $13 million this season, but a contract boost of several million more would seem like a nickel for Wilf relative to the windfall he would enjoy from a new stadium. Wilf might even want Favre more than coach Brad Childress does. Childress’ contract, by the way, runs through 2013 and averages an estimated $4 million annually. The NFL also needs Favre because, as odd as his antics are, he creates a buzz for the league. Also, it shouldn’t be understated that as long as Favre plays football, he collects off-field endorsements, including from Wrangler and Sears, totaling an estimated $4 million annually. — Pioneer Press