According to Chris Tomasson, Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen says he is healthy and ready to take the field this year.

Griffen was away from the team to deal with an undisclosed leg injury that he declined to elaborate on. He is entering his ninth year in the NFL, all of which he has played for the Vikings. Griffen was a major reason the Vikings were considered one of the best defenses in the league last year. He recorded a career-high 13 sacks in the 2017-18 season and is optimistic that he can produce results for his team this year.

“I’m happy to be back with the team playing at a high level. I’m feeling good right now. I’m playing good ball. Danielle (Hunter) is looking good. The guys are looking good out there. We’re just excited to get to Week 1 and get ready to play, man. We’re all 100 percent and ready to go,” said Griffen in an interview with the Pioneer Press.

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The Vikings defense is expected to just as well if not better than they did last season. While Griffen is their leader, Hunter, Linval Joseph and Sheldon Richardson are also vital parts of the equation.

Their defensive talent should combine well with their upgrade at the quarterback position to help them have a successful season. Having all their starters in the locker room and healthy before week one will get them firing on all cylinders to take on the San Francisco 49ers in their season opener.