Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen had an up and down season last year on and off the field, but is back this season as a man on a mission. Griffen missed five games last year because of a mental health issue and when he did come back he didn't look like the same player as he had since coming into the league.

Teammate Stephen Weatherly has taken notice of how Griffen has looked this season and is expecting big things out of him.

“He is a man on a mission,’’ defensive end Stephen Weatherly said via the Pioneer Press. “He’s coming for everything and more. He’s motivated, he’s driven. He’s back in front leading the group, and we’re going to go as far as he goes.’’

Griffen knows that all the eyes are on him because of how last year turned out, and he knows to have the success he just needs to stay disciplined.

“It’s not really about motivation, it’s about being disciplined,’’ he said. “Last year was hard, but I got the right team around me now and my teammates, the coaches, the whole organization behind me, and that feels good. And I just stay disciplined, stay consistent and keep on doing what I’m doing.’’

Last season, Griffen only finished with 5.5 sacks after averaging 11 over the previous four years. Griffen is a key to the defense having success, so it's important that he stays disciplined and stays on the field. So far, it looks like everything is on track for another big year for the former USC star.