Everson Griffen is saying goodbye after just a few short games in Dallas.
Sometimes goodbyes are easier when you’re away. For Everson Griffen, his time with the Dallas Cowboys was short-lived, but memorable.
On Tuesday, the Cowboys traded the defensive end to the Detroit Lions in exchange for a conditional 2021 sixth-round pick. Griffen signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the franchise following his departure from the Minnesota Vikings.
Even though Griffen played just seven games in the Lone Star State, his time in Dallas will be remembered for his hard work ethic on and off the field. Following the news, the four-time Pro Bowler took to social media to say his fond farewell to the franchise.
Griffen also tweeted hello to his new team, sounding excited to begin the next journey of his career.
The 32-year-old’s production diminished after spending a decade in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Through seven games, Griffen tallied 20 tackles, three tackles for losses and 2.5 sacks. Now in the Motor City, perhaps his overall numbers will rebound as the team looks to keep itself in playoff contention within the NFC North.
Everson Griffin’s loss for Dallas is a win for Detroit
The Lions recently picked up their third victory of the season in a late 23-22 outing against the Atlanta Falcons. Matthew Stafford is putting up decent numbers, throwing for 1,580 yards, 10 touchdowns and four interceptions. The defense has improved in a prove-it year for Matt Patricia, yet has still struggled to develop a consistent pass rush. In seven games, the Lions rank 28th in sacks with eight.
With Everson back in the division where he became a star, the Lions add a player who used to terrorize them twice a season. In 10 seasons with the Vikings, Griffen tallied 16 sacks against the Lions, with six coming in his past six games.
Detroit will need to wait to expose their hopeful game-changer on defense. Due to COVID-19 protocols, his first game in the Honolulu blue won’t be until Nov. 8, when the Lions face Griffen’s former team in Minneapolis.