Vikings star running back Dalvin Cook gave a statement on mental health Wednesday afternoon. This comes after teammate Everson Griffen posted a concerning video on social media early Wednesday morning. The Vikings held a live press conference where Cook addressed the situation.
He told the media how much Griffen means to him and how their bond has grown stronger as time goes on. Cook said that when he got to Minnesota, Griffen took him under his wing. As an older player, he taught Cook what to do and what not to do — how to be a pro. “That's my brother, so I just want him to be okay.”
The video Griffen posted showed him with a gun, which he said “Dalvin Cook helped me purchase.” When asked why his name was mentioned in the video, Cook replied, “No, I don't.”
Cook also took this time to emphasize the importance of checking in on the people who may not show signs of mental health struggles.
“Your mental health is always important. I think checking on your loved ones, your brothers, the tough ones that don't show the signs of being weak…just making sure that they're okay. That's important in todays world.”
As of Wednesday afternoon, Griffen is “getting the care he needs,” according to an official statement from the Vikings Twitter.
This developing situation comes as the Vikings prepare for Week 12. They will travel to San Francisco to face the 49ers Sunday evening.