Retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre filed a defamation lawsuit against former tight end Shannon Sharpe following critical remarks made on a sports broadcast regarding Favre's connection to a Mississippi welfare scandal. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit, stating Sharpe's comments were constitutionally protected free speech. Favre's lawyer argued that Sharpe's accusations of theft were defamatory, while Sharpe's attorney maintained they were opinions expressed in response to a news report. The welfare scandal involved over $77 million misspent from a program intended to help the needy, with Favre returning $1.1 million in speaking fees received improperly. Despite denying any wrongdoing and not facing criminal charges, Favre still owes a significant amount. The appeal court judges have yet to make a ruling in the case.