NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports the Minnesota Vikings are close to bringing back longtime edge rusher Everson Griffen.
“The deal between Everson Griffen and Minnesota is not finalized but sources say it’s headed that way. Barring a snag, it will likely happen,” Rapoport reported Monday morning.
Reunion: The #Vikings are expected to sign veteran pass-rusher Everson Griffen, who worked out for his old friends last week, source said. Griffen had 6 sacks last year for the #Cowboys and #Lions, but spent every season prior in Minnesota.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 23, 2021
Griffen, who turns 34 in December, had six sacks while playing for the Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. He played the first ten seasons of his career with the Vikings after he was selected in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft.
A return to Minnesota may elevate the drama level in the locker room considering Griffen’s tweets about quarterback Kirk Cousins this past January.
The tweets, which tagged the Vikings, included “Kirk Cousins is ass” and a suggestion that Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer didn’t want to sign Cousins when he joined the team prior to the 2018 season.
Everson Griffen: I’m Tryna come back to Minnesota!
Also Everson Griffen: pic.twitter.com/bPITfWF2Yt
— Realistic Randy (@realistic_randy) January 9, 2021
But from a football perspective, Griffen adds depth to the defensive line and the ability to pressure the quarterback. He also brings veteran leadership and a healthy understanding of Zimmer’s defense.
