Vikings coach Mike Zimmer on Everson Griffen: ‘I’d love to have him back’

Minnesota DE Everson Griffen is coming off a 2019 season where he had eight sacks and an interception for the Vikings.

Former Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen voided his contract with Minnesota this offseason.

Optimistic Vikings fans tabbed Griffen to return to the team, re-signing on a cheaper deal. But later, Griffen announced on Instagram that he would not be returning to the team.

Then, Griffen told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network “never say never” about a possible return to the Vikings.

It’s July and Griffen has yet to sign with an NFL team. Asked about Griffen possibly returning to Minnesota, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said he doesn’t know. Here’s what else he said:

“I’d love to have him back,” Zimmer said, via the Pioneer Press. “He’s always been one of my guys. If that happens, it would be great. But I don’t know where that’s at right now.”

Griffen is coming off a 2019 season where he had eight sacks and an interception for the Vikings. His presence would help solidify the defensive line, despite defensive end Ifeadi Odenigbo appearing to be a decent replacement.