Former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen was arrested early Wednesday morning in Minneapolis after Minnesota State Patrol troopers said he refused to leave Interstate 394.
According to authorities, the 38-year-old Griffen was found walking along the left-hand shoulder of westbound I-394 near Dunwoody Boulevard at around 2:51 a.m. A state trooper instructed him to leave the roadway, but Griffen reportedly did not comply.
Everson Griffen Arrested on I-394
The Minnesota State Patrol said troopers ultimately used a Taser after Griffen refused to follow the order. He was then taken into custody.
Medics responded to the scene to evaluate Griffen for possible injuries. After he was medically cleared, he was transported to the Hennepin County Jail.
Griffen was booked on a misdemeanor charge of failure to obey a lawful order, according to information from authorities and the jail roster.
The incident occurred during the early morning hours, when a pedestrian walking along an interstate can create significant safety concerns for both the individual and passing motorists.
What Happened to Everson Griffen?
The arrest adds to a series of recent legal and law-enforcement encounters involving the former NFL player.
KSTP reported that Griffen was charged in July with driving a vehicle without an ignition interlock device. The device is designed to prevent a vehicle from starting unless the driver provides an alcohol-free breath sample.
Griffen also faced an alleged probation violation in 2025 after authorities said he failed to abstain from alcohol or drugs and did not comply with random drug testing. Later that year, he was cited after reportedly being clocked driving 130 mph in a 60 mph zone on Interstate 494 in Minnetonka.
These incidents have kept Griffen in the public spotlight several years after his NFL career ended.
Everson Griffen’s NFL Career
Before his recent legal troubles, Griffen was best known for a successful career with the Minnesota Vikings.
Griffen entered the NFL in 2010 and spent the majority of his career in Minnesota. He became one of the team’s most productive pass rushers and established himself as a prominent defensive end during his peak years.
Across his 12 NFL seasons from 2010 through 2021, Griffen recorded 85.5 career sacks, according to FOX 9. He also produced three seasons with at least 10 sacks.
His career included stops with the Vikings, Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. After joining Dallas in 2020, Griffen was traded to Detroit later that season before returning to Minnesota in 2021. He subsequently ended his playing career.
KSTP’s career statistics list Griffen with 74.5 sacks and 86 tackles for loss during his time with the Vikings.
Griffen Has Spoken About Mental Health
Griffen has previously been open about his struggles with mental health. According to FOX 9, he posted on social media about getting back on track roughly six weeks before the latest arrest.
His history has made his recent encounters with law enforcement a particularly sensitive subject for fans who remember his impact on the Vikings.
It is important to distinguish allegations and charges from proven wrongdoing. The latest case involves a misdemeanor allegation that Griffen failed to obey a lawful order after being instructed to leave the interstate.
What Happens Next for Everson Griffen?
Griffen’s latest case will proceed through the legal system. The available information indicates that he was medically evaluated following the arrest and then booked into the Hennepin County Jail.
Further details about the case, including any court proceedings or additional charges, could emerge as authorities and the court process continue.
For now, the former Vikings star’s arrest marks another difficult chapter for a player who once established himself as one of Minnesota’s most recognizable defensive stars.
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