BREAKING: Star Pro-Bowl Defensive End Everson Griffen in DUI Arrest Shock

Pro-Bowl DE Everson Griffen arrested for impaired driving, released hours later.

Everson Griffen, a free-agent Pro-Bowl defensive end, was recently arrested in Chanhassen on suspicion of impaired driving, according to jail records. The incident occurred on Saturday, and Griffen was taken into custody and booked into Carver County Jail at 12:41 p.m. However, he was released just an hour later, and formal charges have not yet been filed in connection with the incident.

Griffen, who is 35 years old, has had previous encounters with legal and mental health issues. In 2021, he publicly disclosed that he has bipolar disorder after a concerning video was posted on his Instagram account. This led to a response from the police and mental health professionals at his residence. Despite these setbacks, Griffen remains a resident of the Twin Cities, where he spent a significant portion of his NFL career.

Originally drafted by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, Griffen played for the team from 2010 to 2019 and then again in 2021. He was an integral part of the team for 11 seasons, earning four Pro Bowl appearances and being selected 2nd team All-Pro. Griffen also holds the impressive record for the fourth-highest number of sacks in Vikings' history, with a total of 79.5.

In addition to his time with the Vikings, Griffen had brief stints with the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys in the past. This recent incident adds to a string of legal issues involving members of the Vikings community. Just last week, rookie wide receiver Jordan Addison was cited for speeding and reckless driving, as he was caught going at an alarming speed of 140 MPH in a 55-MPH zone.

These incidents highlight the importance of responsible behavior both on and off the field for professional athletes. It serves as a reminder that even those who have achieved great success in their careers are not immune to the consequences of their actions. The NFL and its teams must continue to prioritize player education and support systems to ensure the well-being of their athletes.