Everson Griffen has been arrested. The former Minnesota Vikings defensive end was reportedly pulled over for a traffic stop in Winona, Minnesota, on Thursday, July 23. He is alleged to have been driving at 62 mph in a 40 mph zone.
Videos by Wide Open Country
"Griffen was booked on a gross misdemeanor charge of not driving with an interlock device—a device that won't let a car start unless the driver blows a 0.00 into the breathalyzer," a representative of the Winona County Detention Center told TMZ. "Jail records show he was later released after posting bond."
Following his arrest, Griffen has taken to Instagram to share his side of the incident. Importantly, he noted that there was no alcohol or drug use.
"Nothing happened when I got pulled over last night," Griffen wrote. "My license was revoked because I forgot to complete the required class/test, and I just moved, so I was planning to take care of both the class and the address change on Monday. I wasn't drinking, wasn't smoking and wasn't doing anything wrong. Everything is fine."
Griffen then followed up in his own comments section.
"One last thing I'm on probation. If this had anything to do with drugs. I would be in jail right now. Heading to prison! Have a blessed day!"
Everson Griffen Enjoyed a Stellar NFL Career
Griffen spent 12 years in the NFL. He entered the league in 2010 after being drafted by the Vikings with the 100th overall pick. He proceeded to spend 10 seasons with the franchise, earning four Pro Bowl selections along the way. Those selections came in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019.
Griffen also made the All-Pro second team in 2017.
After leaving Minnesota in 2019, Griffen joined the Dallas Cowboys before being moved midway through the season to the Detroit Lions. He signed with the Vikings for one final year in 2021.
Throughout his NFL tenure, Griffen suited up for 176 regular-season games, starting 96. He recorded 403 combined tackles and two interceptions. He also ended his career with 85 sacks to his name.
There are no further details regarding Griffen's arrest at this time.
