Dec 1, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) carries the ball during overtime against the Chicago Bears at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Bears 23-20 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
After the child abuse incident and suspension, superstar running back Adrian Peterson wanted to know the Minnesota Vikings were still committed to him. And the only way to show that to an NFL football player is to give him some guaranteed money. So this offseason, we hear all about Peterson not feeling comfortable going back to the team.
But know, Peterson should be as comfortable as anyone with the Vikings as they have shown they are committed. The team announced Tuesday that the two sides have “mutually agreed” to restructure the final three years of Peterson’s contract. And the Vikings franchise is comfortable to know the face of it will likely finish his career in Minnesota.
G.M. Rick Spielman was quoted by NFL.com saying, “This agreement is a win for both Adrian and the Vikings and is a positive step toward Adrian finishing his career as a Minnesota Viking. As we have consistently said, Adrian is a valuable part of the Vikings organization and we look forward to his return to the field.”
NFL.com quoted Peterson saying, “I appreciate the Vikings for working together on this restructured contract, which provides additional security for me but also allows opportunities for me to further prove my value to the team and within the NFL. It was important for me to continue my career in Minnesota, and I cannot wait to get on the field in front of Vikings fans again.”
Peterson’s new deal is worth $44 million over three years, per a source who has seen the contract. His 2015 salary of $13 million is fully guaranteed and the 2016 salary of $13 million is only guaranteed if the Vikings exercise a $5 million roster bonus on the third day of the league year.
Decisions have to be made in 2017 with his figure climbing to $18 million including an $11.75 base salary with a $6 million roster bonus. This is a deal that should be done for the greatest running back of his generation. Now that they have a quarterback and addressed the receiver position and defense, the Vikings look locked and loaded to contend.