It's not Brett Favre, but the impact around the league is being felt just as much. Veteran quarterback Doug Flutie has officially retired at age 43. He played his final season with the New England Patriots as the backup to Tom Brady, and had a blast doing so. He even had the opportunity to execute a "drop" kick last year near the end of the season. Although he only threw for 86 touchdowns in the NFL, he has played professional football for 21 years.

"To finish it up by getting back here[New England] was very special," said Flutie.

Over his past four seasons, Flutie has played in only 15 games as mainly a backup. Three of those years were with the San Diego Chargers.

"That emotional tie to the other players on the team isn't always there when you're not in the battle," Flutie said. "`If I did it all again, I'd be happy until the end. I'm a lucky man,'" Flutie said, "and that is exactly how I feel."