Veteran quarterback Mark Brunell apparently plans to join the Jets once the rules of the “Final Eight Plan” evaporate on July 22. And for anyone wondering why Brunell has decided to continue playing after capping a lengthy career with a Super Bowl ring finally secured as the backup to Drew Brees in New Orleans, there’s a good reason for Brunell’s intention to keep playing.
Money.
According to First Coast News in Jacksonville, Brunell and other former Jaguars face multiple lawsuits due to defaulted business loans.
Brunell, Todd Fordham, and Joel Smeenge already have found themselves on the wrong side of a ruling in a Michigan case involving a $1.1 million loan. Another case involving a Jacksonville bank alleges a $2.2 million debt.
The loans arise from failed business projects involving Brunell and the other players. Michael Freed, who represents the players, acknowledges the legitimacy of the $1.1 million judgment in Michigan. “The company [Champion LLC] didn’t remain current on the loan and there was no question that our clients were guarantors on that loan, Freed told First Coast News. “There were no defenses that could be raised so we did not contest that.”
Freed also acknowledges that Brunell regrets co-signing for the loans. “He wished he didn’t sign it, but he did and we’re doing the right thing by working with the bank to try to work it out,” Freed said.
One way to work it out involves coming up with cash, and one way to come up with cash involves continuing to play football.
Or maybe selling that Super Bowl ring on eBay.