Report: Brett Favre passes initial test, still unlikely to play

DETROIT -- Brett Favre apparently has taken a step toward being available on Sunday, but Minnesota Vikings interim coach Leslie Frazier isn't upgrading the 41-year-old quarterback's chances.

Frazier told ESPN's Ed Werder on Saturday that Favre remains doubtful for the Vikings' season finale against the Detroit Lions, despite passing the initial post-concussion neurological examination he'd failed several times since getting knocked out on Dec. 20 against Chicago.

"I don't think he's going to make it," Frazier told Werder. "It's going to be tough."

Favre, who has said repeatedly this is his final season, also would have to pass a conditioning test without showing symptoms in order to be cleared to play -- if he hasn't already. The Vikings then would want to see Favre throw during pregame warmups to make sure he hasn't had a setback with his sprained sternoclavicular joint since he last was on the field.

Unless all of that happens, rookie Joe Webb will make his second NFL start against the Lions. However, considering this is Favre and perhaps his final game, never say never.

Tom Pelissero is Senior Editor and columnist for 1500ESPN.com. He hosts from 6 to 8 p.m. weeknights and co-hosts from 10 a.m. to noon Sundays on 1500 ESPN Twin Cities.
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