FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Brett Favre's rocket right arm might be running out of steam.

The 39-year-old quarterback insisted yesterday he hasn't decided whether he'll return to the New York Jets next season, but said the health of his shoulder could be a factor.

"I think the ending physical, or whatever, that every player goes through after the last game will kind of maybe shed some light on some things," he said. "So we'll see."

Favre has struggled for several weeks, with one touchdown and six interceptions in New York's last four games. His arm strength doesn't appear to be what it was earlier this season, and that has led to speculation his right shoulder may be ailing. Favre did little to dispel that notion.

"During the course of the year, there was numerous times where I'd been asked about my shoulder and it had been hit a couple of times," Favre said. "I don't know. I mean, just knowing my body, there may be something, but there's no test yet to reveal anything."

Favre said he hadn't yet had the shoulder examined, but will after the season — whether that's after Sunday's game against Miami or after the playoffs, if the Jets make it.

"I'm sure if we MRIed enough, we'd probably find something," Favre said, laughing.

Coach Eric Mangini said yesterday he would like to have Favre back next year. Favre said he and Mangini haven't yet spoken about it and he's only focused on playing the Dolphins. The Jets need to win Sunday and hope either New England or Baltimore loses to make the playoffs.

"Do I see myself playing here next year?" Favre said. "I didn't see myself playing here this time last year."