Everson Griffen wrapped his former high school football coach Kelly Epley in a headlock and began to climb on his back.

The coach grabbed Griffen's arm, then his leg, ready to engage in a wrestling bout, if needed. The friendly exchange quickly turned into a hug between the two grown men, a display of the tough love Griffen is thankful Epley gave him when he was a "knucklehead" teenager growing up in Arizona.

The two came together last week at the Pro Bowl as part of the NFL's "Thank you, coach" initiative. The NFL offered each Pro Bowl player the opportunity to invite "that special high school coach who most impacted their life" plus a guest to celebrate the week in Orlando.

Epley, who coached Griffen at Agua Fria High School in Avondale, Ariz., watched his former player practice with the other NFL all-stars and then sat down for an interview with the Vikings communications staff. Griffen crashed the interview with the headlock before the two shared a special moment together on camera.

"You never took it easy on me and that's why I'm here today, because I learned," Griffen told Epley.

The coach tried to convince Griffen he probably got some of that same tough love in college from the USC coaching staff, but the Vikings star replied "Nah, not like you. I haven't met nobody like you. Not even close. You were just [Griffen growled]. I loved it, though. You taught me some valuable lessons."

Griffen also praised Epley's role in the recruiting process before teasing the coach for his routine of eating McDonald's breakfast every morning.

"I appreciate it, man," Griffen told Epley.

The high school coaches were treated to a welcome reception and luncheon with their Pro Bowl players. The coaches also participated in the USA Football National Conference, attended Sunday's game, and were recognized on the field alongside the players.

Photo credit: Vikings.com.