The Facts: Vikings HC Brad Childress said today that “as far as I know [Favre] is still retired,” but declined to completely close the door on the QB coming out of retirement to play for the Vikings. Childress acknowledged he has spoken with Favre on the phone -- “Just like I did last year, three months ago,” Childress said -- but added the two have not talked in several weeks.

Diehards Line:Childress did make it clear the Vikings have looked into the situation, a fact that team President Mark Wilf confirmed more than a week ago. “You’re always interested in investigating,” Childress said. As Star Tribune staffer Judd Zulgad suggested, much as Favre’s agent, James "Bus" Cook, has done Childress’ answers reflected the fact that Favre has retired from the NFL — for now. Of course, that could change. Childress would not discuss if there is any point at which it will be too late for Favre to decide he is going to return to the NFL.