Court Turns Down Appeal From Brett Favre in Defamation Case Against Shannon Sharpe

The remarks ‘are better viewed as strongly stated opinions,’ U.S. Circuit Judge Leslie H. Southwick wrote.

Former NFL quarterback Brett Favre in a file photograph. Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

A federal appeals court on Sept. 16 upheld a lower court ruling that rejected a defamation lawsuit from former NFL quarterback Brett Favre against commentator Shannon Sharpe, another ex-football player.

Favre allegedly received money from a nonprofit for speeches, and the money originated from a federal welfare program, according to Mississippi officials. Favre has repaid the funds, but not interest, according to Mississippi Auditor Shad White.