5 Vikings players with soaring stock at the bye week
By Dean Jones
Everson Griffen – DE
Having someone who’s achieved as much as Everson Griffen throughout his career on a list like this is surprising. But the veteran defensive end has blown away expectations upon his Vikings return.
Griffen was a late addition in free agency after patching things up with Mike Zimmer. This homecoming of sorts has clearly been the making of him.
The four-time Pro Bowler has gone from a rotational piece into the starting lineup in double-quick time. Griffen has four sacks, 11 tackles, seven quarterback hits, and 19 pressures from 65 percent of Minnesota’s defensive snaps, proving there is plenty of life in the old dog yet.
Stability was key for Griffen following failed stints with the Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. Familiar surroundings also seem to be doing wonders for the player’s mental health – which is equally as important given his struggles psychologically.
Whether this will amount to anything more than a short-term arrangement is up for debate. Griffen is no spring chicken anymore, but the Vikings made a shrewd move to bring him back, and it might even result in an extended stay if this form continues throughout the campaign.
Griffen’s passion, experience, and drive have been a tremendous asset to call upon. And one thing’s for sure, Minnesota is a much better defensive unit when the USC product is firing on all cylinders.