Former Detroit Lions defensive end Everson Griffen was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of driving while under the influence.
According to Bring Me The Sports, “Carver County Jail logs show the 35-year-old defensive end was booked into jail at 12:41 p.m. and released an hour later.
He was booked on probable cause charges of driving while intoxicated in Chanhassen. It’s not clear if formal charges have yet been filed.”
Back in 2020, the Dallas Cowboys traded the veteran defensive lineman to the Lions, in exchange for a conditional sixth-round pick.
Detroit’s defense, led by head coach Matt Patricia, was seeking a boost in their pass-rush when the deal was made.
Griffen had his most productive NFL seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, as he spent 10 seasons with Detroit’s NFC rival.
In Minnesota, Griffen secured four Pro Bowl selections while racking up 74.5 sacks.
In Detroit, the 33-year-old recorded three tackles, 3.5 sacks, three passes defended and secured a PFF grade of 69.5 in his one season in Motown.
Prior to the start of the 2021 season, Griffen signed a deal to return to the Vikings.
In November of that season, Griffen was placed on the league’s NFI list, as he has continuously battled mental health struggles.
Carter issued a statement Wednesday afternoon in response to the arrest warrants.
“This morning I received a telephone call from the Athens Georgia Police Department informing me that two misdemeanor warrants have been issued against me for reckless driving and racing,” the statement read.
“Numerous media reports also have circulated this morning containing inaccurate information concerning the tragic events of January 15, 2023.
It is my intention to return to Athens to answer the misdemeanor charges against me and to make certain that the complete and accurate trust is presented.
There is no question in my mind that when all of the facts are known that I will be fully exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing.”
