Minnesota Vikings provide update on Everson Griffen

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen exited his house after a concerning series of events which started early Wednesday morning. After posting video of himself holding a gun, police were able to get him outside without incident.

The team released the following statement Wednesday afternoon”

“Law enforcement agencies have notified us Everson Griffen came out of his home without incident and is now getting the care he needs. We are thankful to the Hennepin County Sherriff’s Office, the Minnetrista Police Department and the Orono Police Department for their quick responses and dedication to ensuring the situation ended peacefully. Our focus remains on Everson’s health and safety and providing the proper resources for him and his family.”

The defensive end has a history of mental health concerns. In 2018, the Vikings sent him a letter stating he could not return until he underwent a mental health evaluation. A few days later, Griffen was involved in an altercation when he allegedly threatened to shoot someone at a hotel who would not let him into their room.

Griffen was “growing increasingly paranoid and feared someone was trying to kill him in the weeks and days” just prior to the 2018 incident, according to the Minnesota Star-Tribune.

More about Everson Griffen

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen released a video on his Instagram early Wednesday morning saying people were trying to kill him in his house. In the video, he is holding a gun.

Griffen said in the video that he purchased the gun with the help of Dalvin Cook, Minnesota’s star running back.

“Registered to me,” Griffen added. “I bought all my bullets around town… It all belongs to me, and they are registered to me.”

According to a police report, the Minnetrista Police Department responded to a 911 call from Griffen. He said someone was inside of his home, where he resides with his wife and three sons, and needed police. He said he had fired a weapon, but no one was injured. Law enforcement did not locate an intruder.

The Vikings released a statement on Wednesday following the incident, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

“Vikings representatives and the team’s mental health professional have been on-site at Everson Griffen’s home since early this morning and are cooperating with law enforcement,” the statement reads. “Our only concern at this time is the safety and well-being of Everson and his family. We will have further comment at the appropriate time.”

Minnesota head coach Mike Zimmer was made aware of the issue early this morning.