You can make an argument that the Minnesota Vikings had the best defense in franchise history in 2017. Yes, the Purple People Eaters were phenomenal for a number of years, but Mike Zimmer’s unit was incredible.

They set an NFL record in third-down conversions allowed, and were the No. 1 overall defense in points and yards allowed. The key to that defense was the dominant defensive front, mainly their two edge rushers, Danielle Hunter and Everson Griffen.

Everson Griffen is looking for a return to the NFL

After being out of the league since 2021, Griffen is looking to try and return to the NFL. He made an appearance on Josina Anderson’s podcast, The Exhibit Show.

“My desire is to play again,” Griffen said. “I know the things that I’ve done. I’ve burnt bridges, but I feel like that’s reparable. I’m willing to do anything to mend them. I’m saying clear, you don’t have to worry about me going back to using again.”

Griffen has dealt with a lot of personal issues over the past few years, as he’s dealt with personal issues regarding his mental health. He was arrested over the weekend and charged with not driving with an ignition interlock, which will further complicate things for a potential return. That already compounds on the fact that Griffen has not played in five years.

It would be a long shot for Griffen to play again for the reasons listed above, but if he does have some juice left in the tank, Griffen might be worth calling. He was very good in his 12-year career after being selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He collected 85.5 sacks during his career, including a second-team All-Pro season in 2017, when he had 13.0 and 12 tackles for loss.

That profile with any kind of athleticism would be a nice rotational pass rusher, but getting that opportunity could be a difficult one to find.