Over the weekend, former Jets sideline reporter Jenn Sterger planned to cooperate with the NFL’s investigation regarding the conduct of former Jets quarterback Brett Favre. More recently, reports have emerged that she possibly won’t.
Then came on Tuesday a cryptic statement from Sterger’s manager, Phil Reese: “This is something that allegedly happened two years ago. We don’t want a quick resolution, but the proper resolution.” Reese wouldn’t say whether Sterger is cooperating with the NFL or whether she has hired a lawyer, but Reese said that “we’re looking at all our options right now and our only concern is what’s in Jenn’s best interest.”
Reese’s use of the terms “proper resolution” and “Jenn’s best interest” will serve only to fuel speculation that an ultimate decision not to cooperate with the NFL possibly was driven by Favre’s decision to divert to Sterger some of the $16 million Favre is earning from the Vikings in 2010.
Indeed, Reese’s statement fairly can be interpreted as an open invitation to Favre to commence the process of negotiating a confidentiality agreement and/or a settlement of any potential claims. Otherwise, Reese wouldn’t be talking about “proper resolution” and “Jenn’s best interest.” Instead, Reese would be saying that Sterger wants to do the right thing, and that if the NFL believes the information that has been reported by Deadspin compels an investigation in order to eradicate potential sexual harassment from the pro football workplace, then she has no qualms about telling her story.
At a time when many are skeptical of Sterger’s motives and agenda, it’s critical that Reese do nothing to give credence to the theory that Sterger is merely making a grab for attention and/or money. So far, she’s gotten plenty of attention without overtly courting it. As to the money grab, Reese’s statement potentially comes off as the equivalent of a message to Brett that cash, check, or any major credit cards will be accepted.