Former Minnesota Vikings star Everson Griffen is seeking a comeback.
That news comes after a five-year layoff from the NFL as well as a recent arrest that cast doubts about his assertions amid his announcement.
Griffen, a fourth-round pick by the Vikings in 2010, earned four Pro Bowl trips with the Vikings and also spent time with the Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. However, off-field and mental health issues disrupted his career, which he hopes to get back on track to achieve a milestone.
Ex-Vikings Star Everson Griffen Eyeing Comeback
Griffen spoke with NFL reporter Josina Anderson, and the Vikings star said in no uncertain terms that he wants to return to the NFL.
Griffen, who turns 39 in December, is stuck at 85.5 career sacks and is convinced he can contribute “9.5” sacks this season. He cited examples like Aaron Rodgers and fellow EDGE Cameron Jordan as players still being impactful into their 40s.
Griffen eschewed Anderson’s note that they have not had a similar hiatus.
“My desire is is to play again. Of course, that’s my desire,” Griffen said plainly after some prodding from Anderson. “I know the things that I’ve done; that I burnt bridges. But I feel like that’s reperable because, I’m willing to do anything to mend them. I’m saying clear this: you don’t have to worry about me going back to using again because this life is so much clearer,” Griffen said on “The Exhibit” episode published on July 26
“Give me two and a half months. Two and half months, I’ll be back in shape. Two and a half months, three months, I’ll be back in shape. I’ll be ready to go.”
The Vikings selected Griffen 100th overall in the 2010 draft. He recorded 79.5 of his sacks in purple and gold. However, his off-field troubles have compounded his battles with his mental health.
He was arrested earlier this month on suspicion of an ignition interlock violation.
Griffen was most recently with the Vikings in 2021. He earned over $63 million in NFL contracts during his career so far, per Spotrac.
This story will be updated shortly…
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