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Adrian Peterson Future Hall of Famer: Season in Limbo

By Joe Ruedy

Dec 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) carries the ball during the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) carries the ball during the second quarter against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
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Adrian Peterson is Still a Free agent?!

One of the greatest running backs of all time is a free agent and still doesn’t have a home after the first few weeks of free agency. I’m talking about Adrian Peterson

Peterson is 32 FOR some running backs a death sentence. I fell  that AP has some left in the tank but has to be on a team that has a good line and allows for him to power it through. He has to be spelled as an aging back to prevent breaking down due to what most would call being overused most of his career. He has led the league in carries year in and year during his career when healthy mostly due to an inept Minnesota offense.

There are a few reasons  he is still available.

What talks? Money talks.

Peterson’s age should have him asking for somewhere around 8 mil a year. Considering his old salary he was supposed to make this year with Minnesota about 16 mil-18 mil. It’s quite a discount. The big problem is the cap hit and many feel that running backs are a dime a dozen. As with everything are a few exceptions to the rule. A back that can’t be a workhorse wouldn’t be worth that kind of money.

Durability. 

Playing only 20 out of 48 games in the past 3 years. My opinion is he is a major risk being an aging player who will want a large role that he is used to. He may not be able to handle a large work load without getting hurt. Especially because he just came off of a major injury of a torn meniscus in his right knee. You can work out all you want but until you start taking hits you don’t know.

The Game has changed. 

The NFL has changed a lot recently especially at the running back position.  There are not many teams around that use a single running back anymore.  Especially one that doesn’t have pretty exceptional hands out of the back field. Most teams now have a 2 down back with a 3rd down.  I don’t know in the twilight of Peterson’s career he will be willing to take somewhat of a back seat. He is a gamer and wants to be out on the field everyday and has always been to focal point.

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