Everson Griffen is still a free agent as training camp approaches. Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

Everson Griffen wants to return to Vikings: 'I never should've left'

After 10 years with the Minnesota Vikings, Everson Griffen opted to leave. However, he still wants to go back. 

According to Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated, Griffen recently texted Paul Allen of KFAN to confirm his interest in re-signing with the Vikings.

"I never should've left the Vikings," Griffen said. "I f----d up. What I tweeted was wrong. The Vikings organization took great care of me through my ups and downs, and I disrespected a lot of people."

Griffen tweeted, "Kirk Cousins is a--" and "ask [coach Mike] Zimmer if he wanted Kirk." The tweets have been deleted, but the damage is done. 

Allen explained that Griffen "desperately" wants to return to Minnesota, adding that he wouldn't rule out a return to the Vikings before the season. 

The Minnesota defense struggled in Griffen's absence last season. Meanwhile, the four-time Pro Bowler had six sacks, four pass breakups, 33 tackles, seven tackles for a loss and 14 quarterback hits in 14 games between the Dallas Cowboys and Detroit Lions. 

Minnesota bringing back Griffen seems like a no-brainer. However, it's up to Zimmer if he wants the talented defensive end to return. 

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