Vikings Reuniting With Everson Griffen After Drafting Potential Replacement Makes Next to No Sense

It's not often you see quality NFL pass rushers remain on the open market right after the NFL Draft. Yet, that's been the case for defensive end Everson Griffen, who still has no home in the league.

Vikings general manager Rick Spielman stated before the NFL Draft that the door was open for Griffen to return. That statement still rings true more than a week later, as Spielman told Pro Football Talk that he will "never say never on a player" in regards to Griffen and that his "roster is never set."

Sure, that sounds like Spielman is completely open to reuniting with Griffen. But, it doesn't make any sense, considering the team selected DJ Wonnum in the fourth round of the draft to essentially replace Griffen.

Wonnum is coming off a strong senior year with the Gamecocks, where he notched 37 tackles (9.5 for loss), 4.5 sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble. He's shown the propensity to get to the quarterback at all positions across the defensive line. Defensive-minded head coach Mike Zimmer is going to love utilizing Wonnum at the pro level, where he'll have the opportunity to line up alongside studs like Danielle Hunter and Michael Pierce.

So, where does Griffen fit in with the Vikings? Well, nowhere. Spielman's statements to the media will fool some, but not us. While Griffen was a great player for the Vikings this past decade, the organization has shown they've fully moved on.

Besides, Griffen has a better shot of being a starting edge rusher on another team anyway.