Future hall of fame quarterback Brett Favre has informed the Minnesota Vikings that he has decided to stay retired.

“It was the hardest decision I’ve ever made,” Favre told ESPN. “I didn’t feel like physically I could play at a level that was acceptable. I would like to thank everyone, including the Packers, Jets and Vikings — but, most importantly, the fans.”

Minnesota head coach Brad Childress was hoping Favre would decide to play for the Vikings, but he is confident in current QB’s Sage Rosenfels and Tarvaris Jackson.

“It was a rare and unique opportunity to consider adding not only a future Hall of Fame quarterback but one that is very familiar with our system and division,” Childress said in a statement. “That does not detract from the team that we have. As we have consistently communicated, we feel good about our team and they have put forth a tremendous effort this offseason preparing for the season ahead. With this behind us, we look forward to getting to Mankato and getting training camp underway.”

Favre has proven over and over again that his word means absolutely nothing, and we still believe he’ll end up playing somewhere during the 2009 season.