Former NFL player Everson Griffen was reportedly removed from a Delta Airlines flight due to what was described as ‘unruly behavior’. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff as Griffen was traveling from Chicago to Minneapolis on Delta flight 1902. The 37-year-old, who previously played for the Minnesota Vikings, found himself at the center of this disruptive event, according to a report by TMZ Sports.
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A spokesperson for Delta Airlines confirmed the disturbance that took place on Wednesday, July 16, on the flight from O’Hare to Minneapolis/St. Paul. The flight crew acted promptly, following procedures to return the aircraft to Chicago O’Hare in order to have the unruly passenger, in this case, Griffen, removed from the flight.
In response to the incident, Delta Airlines emphasized their policy of zero tolerance towards disruptive behavior and assured that they would cooperate with law enforcement as necessary. They offered an apology to customers for any travel delays caused by the situation, emphasizing the priority placed on safety and security for all passengers.
Griffen, a former defensive end, had shared a post on his Instagram Stories just hours before the incident, showcasing his travels as he departed Chicago. Despite attempts to reach out for comments, neither Griffen nor the Minnesota Vikings, his former team, have responded to requests for statements regarding the incident during the flight.
During his NFL career, Griffen was a four-time Pro Bowler, displaying his talent as a professional player. However, his career was not without challenges as in 2018, the Vikings had required him to undergo mental health evaluations following reported verbal outbursts during practice sessions. These incidents led to concerns for his well-being and behaviour both on and off the field.
Griffen’s journey through difficulties included incidents involving police interventions, such as trespassing on a teammate’s property and disruptive behavior at a hotel. Despite these challenges, Griffen had undergone evaluations and took steps towards rehabilitation, including residing in a sober house for a period of time.
In a 2020 interview, Griffen expressed gratitude for the challenges he faced in 2018, acknowledging that those experiences had led him to a path of recovery and strength. He affirmed his commitment to maintaining his health and well-being, assuring teams that he was focused on staying on the right track and preventing any repeat of his past struggles.
The latest incident involving Griffen being removed from a flight highlights the ongoing journey of the former NFL player as he navigates challenges both on and off the field. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and struggles that athletes may face beyond their public personas, shedding light on the importance of mental health awareness and support within professional sports.