Vikings extend DE Griffen again

Jul 27, 2017 - 7:27 PM MANKATO, Minn. -- Everson Griffen was rewarded. Again.

Three years ago, one of the first things the Minnesota Vikings did when Mike Zimmer arrived as head coach was give Griffen, then a backup, a five-year, $42.5 million extension while letting the aging Jared Allen walk away in free agency.

Wednesday, with two years still remaining on Griffen's contract, the Vikings poured an even more lucrative deal into their defensive end. Griffen signed a four-year extension worth $58 million with $34 million guaranteed.

"This means I'm a Viking for life," said Griffen, 29.

Griffen has started all but one game since he was given his last contract. He has 30.5 sacks in that time, and has played the run much better than Allen did.

"I think we all knew (a deal) was going to happen. You don't let guys like that go," safety Harrison Smith said. "A lot of time people just see sack numbers and that's what sticks out. But he's a complete player that dominates the game -- run and pass."

When Zimmer arrived, the Vikings ranked 31st defensively. Last year, they ranked third.

"I don't have to change nothing in my play," Griffen said. "Just take my game to the next level each and every day and help this team win."

The Vikings might have another extension to announce soon. Cornerback Xavier Rhodes is expected to get one this summer, a year ahead of when he could become a free agent.