Report: Everson Griffen Leaves Vikings, Browns Named Likely Landing Spot

Veteran pass rusher Everson Griffen has cut off negotiations on a new contract with the Minnesota Vikings and will move on

This is according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, who relayed a message from Griffen’s agent, Brian Murphy: “We have broken off talks with Minnesota because they have to spend their money elsewhere and we decided to now focus our attention on free agency.”

Last month, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported that she believed Griffen will be on the Browns radar. 

According to Cody Benjamin of CBSSports.com, the Browns are indeed a likely landing spot.  

“The Cleveland Browns are also a likely suitor, according to a league source, as they weigh the future of DE Olivier Vernon. The Browns have been more than willing to shell out money for defensive help this offseason, they remain flush with cap space, and they’ve got several notable connections to Griffen from his time in Minnesota — including coach Kevin Stefanski and defensive assistant Jeff Howard, who spent seven years on the Vikings’ staff.”

As Everson Griffen departs the Vikings, the #Cowboys and #Browns stand out as likely landing spots. Full report, with info from @VoiceOfTheStar: https://t.co/BBuKGkbg95

— Cody Benjamin (@CodyJBenjamin) March 20, 2020

Griffen voided the final 3 years of his deal with the Minnesota Vikings in February. 

The two sides were unable to work a new deal and that made Everson an unrestricted free agent. 

Everson took to social media to thank the Vikings fans and bid farewell. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When I came to Minnesota as a fourth-round pick out of USC, I had no idea how much my life would change over the next 10 years. I realized my dream of playing in the NFL, went to four Pro Bowls and came within one game of playing in the Super Bowl in front of the best fans in the country. More importantly, I became a husband, a dad, and met teammates who became brothers for life. I also stumbled a few times on my journey and could not be more grateful for the unconditional support and love I received from SKOL Nation. While it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye, I leave Minnesota in the best physical and mental shape I have ever been and have many Pro Bowl seasons to come! Wherever my next stop is, I will always be grateful to and cheering for the Vikings. Thank you all for the love, support and memories.

A post shared by Everson Griffen (@eversongriffen) on Mar 20, 2020 at 10:55am PDT

“It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye,” Griffen wrote.

CBS Sports’ Patrik Walker reports that the Dallas Cowboys also have interest in Griffen. 

I’m told Everson Griffen has the #Cowboys interest, as he chooses to wave goodbye to the #Vikings.

There’s a solid market for his services, though. Interesting one to watch. https://t.co/GIROP5U3JS

— Patrik [No C] Walker (@VoiceOfTheStar) March 20, 2020

Griffen has made the Pro Bowl 4 times and finished 2019 with 8 sacks.  

He has also proved durable playing in at least 15 games in 8 of 9 seasons.

He has also had at least 8 sacks in 6 of his 8 year’s in the league.