How Old Was Brett Favre When He Retired?

By Sarah Miller · August 24, 2041

Brett Favre was 41 years old when he officially retired from professional football in 2011, marking the end of a legendary 20-season NFL career.

Understanding Brett Favre's Retirement Timeline

Brett Favre, one of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history, retired after playing his final season with the Minnesota Vikings in 2010. While he initially announced his retirement in 2008 after spending 16 seasons with the Green Bay Packers, he returned to play two more seasons with the New York Jets (2008–2009) and then the Vikings (2009–2010). His official and final retirement came on May 4, 2011, at the age of 41.

Key Retirement Announcements

March 2008: First retirement announcement after 16 seasons with the Packers.
August 2008: Reversed decision and joined the New York Jets.
June 2010: Announced return to the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings for a second season.
May 4, 2011: Final retirement at age 41.

NFL Career Overview and Milestones

Favre’s career spanned two decades, during which he redefined durability and consistency at the quarterback position. He holds numerous NFL records, including most consecutive starts by a quarterback (297), a streak that earned him the nickname “Iron Man.”

Major Achievements

Three-time NFL MVP (1995, 1996, 1997)
Super Bowl XXXI Champion and MVP
Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (Class of 2016)
Holds the record for most touchdown passes in a single season before being surpassed (later broken by Peyton Manning)

Season	Team	Age	Games Started	Passing Yards	Touchdowns	Interceptions
1991	Atlanta Falcons	21	1	144	1	2
1992–1996	Green Bay Packers	22–26	80	19,914	125	77
1997–2007	Green Bay Packers	27–37	173	35,465	243	141
2008	New York Jets	38	16	3,472	22	22
2009	Minnesota Vikings	39	16	4,202	33	7
2010	Minnesota Vikings	40	15	3,811	28	19

Table data source:1, 2

The table illustrates Favre’s remarkable longevity and consistent performance into his late 30s and early 40s. Notably, at age 39, he threw for over 4,200 yards and 33 touchdowns with only 7 interceptions, one of the best statistical seasons of his later career. His ability to maintain elite production past the typical quarterback decline age underscores his physical resilience and mental toughness.

Why Did Brett Favre Retire at 41?

By the time Favre turned 41, several factors contributed to his final retirement decision:

Physical wear and tear: Years of hard hits and playing through injuries took a toll on his body.
Team transition: The Vikings moved forward with younger quarterbacks, reducing his role.
Legacy preservation: After multiple retirements and comebacks, he sought closure on his own terms.
Family considerations: Spending more time with family became a priority.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brett Favre's Retirement

How old was Brett Favre when he played his last NFL game?

Brett Favre was 40 years old when he played his final NFL game on January 2, 2011, with the Minnesota Vikings. He officially retired at age 41.

Did Brett Favre retire more than once?

Yes, Brett Favre announced retirement three times: first in March 2008, then unretired in August 2008; again in 2010 after the Vikings' playoff loss, but waited until May 4, 2011, to make it official.

Which team did Brett Favre retire from?

Brett Favre retired as a member of the Minnesota Vikings, where he played his final two seasons (2009–2010).

What records did Brett Favre hold at retirement?

At retirement, Favre held NFL records for most career pass attempts (10,169), completions (6,300), touchdowns (442), interceptions (286), and consecutive starts by a quarterback (297).

Is Brett Favre in the Pro Football Hall of Fame?

Yes, Brett Favre was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016, his first year of eligibility, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.