In his sixth NFL season, Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen finally will have a homecoming.
Griffen is a native of Avondale, Ariz., about 10 miles south of University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, where on Thursday night against the Cardinals, Griffen will play his first NFL game in his home state.
"I'm excited, man," Griffen said. "I'm excited to see family, but my whole thing is going out there and getting this W. We need a win. That's my No. 1 priority."
Griffen had been hoping to make it home for a game last January but wasn't chosen for the Pro Bowl in Glendale.