Lawyers for Brett Favre are seeking to revive a defamation lawsuit against Shannon Sharpe, who criticized Favre's involvement in a Mississippi welfare scandal. Sharpe accused Favre of theft during a sports broadcast, prompting Favre's legal team to argue that the remarks were defamatory. On the other hand, Sharpe's attorney claimed that his comments were opinions expressed in response to a news report. The Mississippi welfare scandal involved the misappropriation of funds from a program to assist the needy, including allegations that Favre received improper speaking fees. Despite repaying some of the money, Favre still owes a significant amount due to interest. However, he denies any wrongdoing and is not facing criminal charges. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit, citing Sharpe's speech as constitutionally protected "rhetorical hyperbole." The appeals court has yet to make a ruling on the matter.