Wow. That's all I can say. Wow.

Wow.

ESPN one-ups Jay Glazer by reporting that Brett Favre will actually sign with the Vikings, pending a physical.

A source close to Brett Favre said the quarterback, pending a physical, will sign a contract with the Minnesota Vikings for between $10 million to $12 million, according to ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen.

Vikings coach Brad Childress confirmed in an e-mail to The Associated Press Tuesday morning that Favre, 39, was traveling from Mississippi to meet with the team.

Asked if the plan was to sign Favre on Tuesday, Childress replied: "In a perfect world."

Wow.

I am in amazement. I knew this was a possibility, but really, really hoped it wasn't going to happen. But, it looks like every effort will be made on Favre's part to play this season.

On Favre's behalf, I don't think it is smart. I think if he was truly committed, he should have signed on last May, showed up for OTA's, skipped most of the contact drills and familiarized himself with his teammates and the offensive scheme.

I just got done bemoaning the effects of a prolonged absence from training camp would affect BJ Raji. Favre actually extended that by a couple of days. This does not bode well for his ability to not only work with his team, but unless he's been doing more than throwing a ball occasionally with high school kids, increases the likelihood of injury, especially at his advanced age.

For the Packers, seriously, I think this is great news. We now have a reason to get really excited about two games on the schedule, assuming Favre passes his physical and stays healthy until then. I think Childress would be wise to not start him every game, or at least, take him out in the latter part of games that are out of reach, so he's healthy for the "important games" and, if it so happens, the playoff run and playoffs.

The $10-12M contract? Unbelievable. Wow. No way would I pay that for Favre, especially after holding out this long. Low base, big incentives based on stats and team success.

I may even have tickets lined up for the home game. Wouldn't miss it for the world.

For those Favre fans who breathed a huge sigh of relief when he announced his re-re-retirement a few weeks ago, this has to be a tough spot. But, face it...the burden of stress is far more on the other side of the Mississippi River. Favre can be a coach-killer. Look what it did to Eric Mangini. The unreal expectations of magic from a 40-year old quarterback will be a source of consternation for the coaches, players, and Favre himself.

It's their problem now. The Vikings should have laid down the law back in May or June and stuck to their guns. By all rights, they waffled themselves, all the way up to giving the man eight figures three weeks into training camp.

Wow. It's going to be a ride, though.