Minnesota Vikings WR arrested for drunk driving

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison was arrested in California on suspicion of driving under the influence. It is the second year in a row that he has had trouble behind the wheel just before training camp.

The Vikings said Monday they were aware of the incident and were gathering more information, but declined to comment further.

According to the California Highway Patrol, an officer responded Friday evening to a report of a stalled vehicle blocking a lane at the Sepulveda Boulevard exit ramp off Interstate 105 westbound, which leads to Los Angeles International Airport. The officer found Addison asleep in the driver’s seat of his white Rolls-Royce, conducted a DUI investigation and arrested him.

Addison, 22, was released two hours later. Additional information was not immediately provided by the CHP. Addison’s agent did not immediately respond to requests from The Associated Press seeking comment.

Addison was drafted 23rd in the first round out of USC last year and was arrested by the Minnesota State Patrol for speeding and reckless driving after he was caught going 140 mph in a 55 mph zone on a nighttime highway trip through St. Paul three days before his first training camp. Addison told the officer he was speeding home because his dog had an emergency.

He later pleaded guilty to a lesser offense, paid a fine and had his license suspended for six months. Addison told reporters before the team’s first full practice: “I showed poor judgment and made a really bad decision that I will definitely learn from.”

Addison shined on the field in his first NFL season, appearing in all 17 games and recording 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. He is the clear second choice behind superstar Justin Jefferson and is entering a transition year for Minnesota’s offense following the departure of quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Vikings’ veterans report to training camp on Sunday.

The team had a rough summer. Rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died earlier this month in a car crash in Maryland that also killed two of his close friends.

Originally published: July 15, 2024 at 12:52