Adrian Peterson: 'I want to stay' with Vikings

Vikings back Adrian Peterson has rushed for over 9,600 yards in only 7 NFL seasons.  (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson said he would like to stay with the team that drafted him, but understands that the NFL is a business and a team "would welcome me with open arms" if he was ever traded.

Peterson, 28, has 786 rushing yards and nine touchdowns this season and averages 4.5 yards a carry despite commanding eight-or-nine man defensive fronts.

"I definitely wouldn't mind playing here," Peterson said to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "I feel like we have the right pieces, and we can continue to get some more pieces as well to help build this team and make us even stronger. ... So, no, [I don't want to go elsewhere]."

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He acknowledged that he has been the subject of trade speculation because the team has been struggling this season.

"I understand that," Peterson said. "I know this is a business and things like that happen. So if it happens, it happens. There's not much I can't handle. I'm sure someone will welcome me with open arms if they do decide to trade me. ... But it's a business, so if they trade me, then, hey."