Dominic

Alford

Griffin was set to make $4.1 million after struggling in 2011, but ESPN’s Josina Anderson reports the Vikes hope to re-sign him at a lower salary. Between the release of Griffin and guards Steve Hutchinson and Anthony Herrera, the Vikings have cleared roughly $13 million in cap space. Griffin was an asset against the run last season, but struggled in coverage and with penalties. His release speaks volumes about his play since the Vikings could be without CB Chris Cook in 2012 depending on the outcome of his domestic assault trial.

An undrafted free agent out of Minnesota, Alford was waived by the Browns near final cuts. He spent time on Carolina’s practice squad. Alford will likely be among the Browns’ first cuts in 2013.