Former NFL defensive end Everson Griffen, once a dominant force on the football field, found himself at the center of another troubling incident this week. On July 16, Griffen was removed from a Delta Air Lines flight after allegedly causing a mid-air disturbance that forced the aircraft to return to its departure airport in Chicago.
According to reports from TMZ and other outlets, Griffen created a scene shortly after takeoff, prompting the pilots of Delta Flight 1902 to return to O’Hare International Airport for the safety of all passengers. Griffen, 37, was then escorted off the plane.
A Delta spokesperson issued a statement saying, “Delta has zero tolerance for unruly behavior and will always work with law enforcement to that end. We apologize to our customers for the delay in their travel as safety and security come before everything else at Delta.”
Prior to the incident, Griffen appeared upbeat, posting a video to social media captioned, “We out Chicago!!! It’s up, it better be!!!” That excitement was short-lived.
A champion on the field but a struggle off it
Griffen’s NFL career was nothing short of impressive. A four-time Pro Bowl selection, he notched 85.5 sacks and 10 forced fumbles, mainly with the Minnesota Vikings. He briefly joined the Dallas Cowboys in 2020 and had a short stint with the Detroit Lions. On the field, he was known for his speed, strength, and intensity.
Off the field, however, Griffen has battled personal demons. His struggles with mental health have been well-documented, including a 2018 incident in which he underwent a psychiatric evaluation following erratic behavior at a hotel and his home. The Vikings supported him during that time, requiring an evaluation before allowing him to return to play.
In 2021, he revealed he had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder after another high-profile mental health incident involving law enforcement. While Griffen has publicly acknowledged his condition and advocated for mental health awareness, problems have persisted. His record includes arrests for DUI, drug possession, and public disturbances.
In 2024, Griffen was arrested for driving while impaired and possession of cocaine, resulting in the suspension of his driver’s license.
The recent Delta Airlines disruption underscores the continued challenges he faces. Though no criminal charges have yet been announced, the event marks yet another chapter in Griffen’s post-football life-one marked by highs and lows.
As discussions around mental health in professional sports grow, Griffen’s journey serves as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the importance of support systems for athletes long after they’ve left the field.
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