Vikings release statement on status of Adrian Peterson
The Minnesota Vikingsreleased a statement on the status of running back Adrian Peterson on Monday.
Peterson pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless assault on Tuesday and was ordered to pay a $4,000 fine and perform 80 hours of community service. He originally faced felony charges of reckless or negligent injury to a child after being accused of hitting his 4-year-old son with a switch.
The NFL announced Thursday that it has informed Peterson his case will be reviewed for potential discipline under the personal conduct policy, and asked him to submit any relevant information. Peterson, who is on the Commissioner's Exempt list, must be reinstated before he is allowed to play again.
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The Vikings' statement:
In regards to Adrian Peterson's status with the Minnesota Vikings, at this time his potential reinstatement is under NFL guidelines. As an organization, we respect and understand the league’s process. In the interim, our focus is on the team and preparing for this weekend's game against the Bears.
On Sunday, CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora reported that there is no guarantee the Vikings will welcome Peterson back to the team if he is reinstated. La Canfora said Minnesota has "serious concerns" about the running back's physical and mental state and is sensitive to the backlash it will receive if Peterson returns.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported the same day that Vikings executives are "divided" on whether they want Peterson to return if immediately reinstated.
The NFL Players Association sent the NFL a letter on Friday calling for the immediate reinstatement of Peterson, according to ESPN. If the league declines, the NFLPA is prepared to file a non-injury grievance.
The Vikings (4-5) play the Bears (3-6) in Chicago on Sunday. Peterson would need to be reinstated by Tuesday in order to participate in a full week of practice before the game.
- Molly Geary
