People are born. People die. People pay taxes. And Brett Favre retires then opens the door for a comeback.

Some things are just guaranteed.

It was a simple transaction, but one that has opened up the Favre can of comeback worms again.

The New York Jets released Favre, which allows the greybeard to sign with any team.

Yes. Even the Minnesota Vikings, where he wanted to go last season.

Favre didn’t exactly douse the rumor flames that he will return ... again.

“At this time, I am retired and have no intention of returning to football,” Favre said.

Note the phrase, “At this time.” As if to say, “Perhaps at another time, like, in 10 minutes, I may change my mind and want to come back, then, maybe, 10 minutes later, I may change my mind again.”

My gut feeling: Favre will suit up this year. He may retire and unretire 10 more times before he is finally done. Somewhere, George Foreman and Larry Holmes are shaking their heads and muttering, “Dude, enough is enough.”

Favre is like the boy who cried wolf. Just call him The Dude Who Cried Retirement.

But it makes sense.

Favre is better than half of the quarterbacks in the NFL. He could help the Vikings. He could help the entire AFC West.

So, switch on the NFL Network, which is thrilled it now has enough programming to make it through the summer.

Oh, joy.