Vikings players, coaches express support for Everson Griffen

EAGAN, Minn. (KMSP) - Minnesota Vikings players and coaches expressed their support Tuesday for defensive end Everson Griffen after several incidents Saturday. 

On Saturday, Griffen, 30, was taken to a local hospital in protective custody for an evaluation following incidents at the Hotel Ivy in downtown Minneapolis and in Minnetrista. According to a police report, Vikings staff were concerned for him and thought he might be having a “nervous breakdown.” He was told not to play in Sunday’s game against Buffalo and was not present at the stadium.  

On Tuesday, head coach Mike Zimmer said the team is going to do everything they can to help Griffen. 

“The only thing we’re concerned about with Everson isn’t anything to do with football, it’s about him getting better,” Zimmer said. 

Quarterback Kirk Cousins addressed Griffen at a press conference. 

“We just want what’s best for Everson and his family and that’s our mindset now,” Cousins told reporters. 

The police report also said Griffen went to the home of cornerback Trae Waynes Saturday night. Griffen’s wife, Tiffany, told police Waynes’ called her and said Griffen had broken into their home. Police later confirmed he did come to the house, opened the front door, then quickly ran away when the door opened. 

Waynes released a statement Tuesday regarding the incident and reaffirmed his support for his teammate: 

“To clarify, there was no attempted break-in at our home and at no point did my family or I feel unsafe,” Waynes said. “We are friends with the Griffen family and we are here to support them in any way possible during these trying times.”

In a statement Monday evening, Vikings General Manager Rick Spielman said the team is “currently focused on Everson’s well-being and providing the appropriate support for him and his family.” 

“I just hope for the best for him,” Zimmer said. “In the long run, he’s a really good kid.”