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Everson Griffen Shares Emotional Instagram Post Ahead of Vikings Exit

By Mark Powell

Everson Griffin says goodbye to Minnesota Vikings fans
Everson Griffin says goodbye to Minnesota Vikings fans /

Everson Griffen is now a *former* Minnesota Viking. The 32-year-old defensive end and team captain has spent his entire career in Minneapolis. Griffen was drafted in 2010 out of USC, and was a fourth-round pick by then-head coach Leslie Frazier.

He is now set to leave the Vikings this offseason in free agency, and acknowledged as much in an Instagram post thanking the franchise, the Twin Cities, and fans.

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

Griffen is a classic case of a franchise and veteran player parting ways when their financial expectations are no longer compatible. With 147 games under his belt, Griffen is ready to cash in, while the Vikings surely believe they've already received their return on their draft investment.

While Griffen didn't match his 13-sack 2017 season, he did notch another Pro Bowl campaign, taking down opposing quarterbacks behind the line of scrimmage eight times. Griffen's durability can't be questioned, even late in his career, meaning he's sure to receive plenty of interest on the open market.

By admitting this is indeed a breakup for the two parties involved, Griffen can focus on his next chapter while the Vikings find a way to replace their electric edge rusher.