Vikings’ Everson Griffen apologizes in Instagram statement

Everson Griffen issued a statement through his Instagram account on Thursday to apologize for his actions and provide an update on his status.

The Minnesota Vikings defensive end missed last weekend’s game due to a knee injury, but he has been dealing with more serious issues — mental health problems. He went to a hotel on Saturday and threatened to shoot people inside; he tried to break into a teammate’s house; and he escaped an ambulance.

Here is what he said in his statement.

“This past week’s events have raised many questions and I want to apologize to everyone who was impacted. I am currently resolving personal issues with which I have been dealing for a long time. Once I have had time to address those issues, I hope to share my story with everyone,” he wrote.

“I am extremely grateful for the support I have received from my family, the Vikings organization, my teammates and our tremendous fan base.

“I apologize for not being able to take the field with my teammates and do not have an exact timeline for my return. I promise, however, I will return as a much-improved person and player.”

The 30-year-old defensive lineman has missed two games this season and as he said, is unsure when he will be back.