In a revealing moment captured during the upcoming ESPN 30 for 30 documentary titled “The New York Sack Exchange,” former New York Jets player Mark Gastineau confronted legendary quarterback Brett Favre at a memorabilia show. This documentary, which premieres Friday, explores the formidable defensive lineup of the Jets in the 1980s, featuring icons like Gastineau, Joe Klecko, Marty Lyons, and the late Abdul Salaam.
During their encounter in Chicago, Gastineau expressed his frustration to Favre, accusing him of intentionally allowing himself to be sacked in order to help Michael Strahan break Gastineau’s long-standing record of 22 sacks set in 1984. Favre, who became the record holder in a controversial play during a 2002 game, maintained that his actions were not malicious but rather a result of a game situation.
The documentary captures the moment when the two sports figures shake hands, with Gastineau saying, “Yeah, right, when you fell down for him. I’m going to get my sack back. I’m going to get my sack back, dude.” This comment underscores the tension surrounding that infamous sack.
In response to Gastineau’s accusations, Favre attempted to lighten the mood, joking that Gastineau “probably would hurt me,” yet the former sack king firmly replied, “You hurt me! You really hurt me, Brett.” Ultimately, the situation was diffused as Favre was escorted away from the exchange.
In a reflective interview featured in the documentary, Gastineau reiterated, “Anybody will tell you that Brett Favre took a dive,” highlighting his longstanding belief regarding the play. After footage of their encounter went viral on social media this past Tuesday, Favre addressed the incident on the platform X to clarify his side of the story.
Favre stated, “I booted out of a run thinking it would be wide open, saw Strahan standing there and ducked down,” explaining that once the game was over, there was no point in trying to make a dramatic play. He acknowledged that during that regular-season finale, where the Packers won 34-25, it was not about Gastineau but rather about Strahan’s opportunity to set a new record.
“In a different game or situation, I would have made a bigger effort to avoid the sack or TFL,” Favre added, noting that he did not intend to hurt Gastineau’s legacy. He expressed awareness of how the circumstances could enhance Gastineau’s marketability and potential Hall of Fame candidacy, which he acknowledges wasn’t on his mind at the time of the play.
“There was no malice on my part,” Favre emphasized, stating that he understands Gastineau’s frustration. He expressed his regret that the confrontation was filmed and made public, describing it as a private moment between two athletes. Favre concluded by sharing his respect for Gastineau, expressing hope that he will one day be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame: “Mark definitely left an indelible mark on the game. He belongs in Canton. Merry Christmas, everyone.”
Gastineau, who was a prominent player known for his personality and skills, remains outside the Hall of Fame, and this incident brings renewed attention to his legacy.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
