Former Vikings Defensive End Everson Griffen Faces New Legal Trouble
Former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen is facing more legal issues after allegedly driving at a speed of over 130 miles per hour on Interstate 494 in Minnetonka, Minnesota. According to court records, Griffen was pulled over by Minnetonka police on I-494 near Stone Road around 10:15 p.m. on Friday for allegedly exceeding the speed limit of 60 miles per hour by more than double. The 37-year-old from Minnetrista was cited for misdemeanor reckless driving and speeding, a petty misdemeanor.
Griffen, who is currently on probation for a DWI conviction, has had a history of struggles with mental health issues and substance use. In 2018, he missed five games due to a mental health situation, and in 2021, he was involved in an incident at his home where he posted a disturbing video on Instagram, expressing concerns for his safety. Griffen has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder and has used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness.
Past Incidents and Probation Violations
In July, Griffen was arrested on a warrant for alleged probation violations related to his DWI case. Court documents alleged that he had failed to abstain from alcohol and substance use and did not comply with random drug testing. Griffen was ordered to undergo an in-custody substance use assessment and participate in a treatment program. He was also ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation and was released to his attorney to be taken to treatment at a facility in Wayzata.
In addition to his recent legal troubles, Griffen has had several past incidents involving reckless driving and substance use. In February 2023, he was put on probation for one year for a reckless driving conviction stemming from a DWI arrest in Chanhassen. In May 2024, Griffen was pulled over by a Minnesota State Patrol trooper for driving at 82 miles per hour on southbound I-35W, and a small vial of cocaine was found in his back pocket. He was convicted of driving drunk and was given 60 days on electronic home monitoring and put on probation for four years.
Career and Mental Health Advocacy
Griffen played 170 games over his career, finishing with 399 tackles, 85½ sacks, six fumble recoveries, two interceptions, and three touchdowns. Despite his struggles with mental health and substance use, Griffen has been an advocate for mental health awareness and has used his platform to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health issues.
Griffen’s story highlights the importance of addressing mental health and substance use issues, particularly among athletes and individuals in high-pressure professions. It also underscores the need for support and resources to help individuals struggling with these issues.
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