Peterson reinstated; Where will he play?
Adrian Peterson has been cleared to return to the NFL. Now all that remains to be settled is where he will play next season.
Commissioner Roger Goodell sent the Vikings star a letter on Thursday advising him of his reinstatement. Peterson missed most of last season while facing child abuse charges in Texas.
Goodell wrote that Peterson will have to fulfill the obligations of his plea deal that reduced a felony charge to a misdemeanor. Goodell also told Peterson he must continue attending counseling while adhering to the league’s new personal conduct policy to avoid further discipline.
“Any further violation of the personal conduct policy by Peterson would result in additional discipline, which could include suspension without pay or banishment from the NFL,” the league said.
Peterson was indicted on abuse charges after inflicting injuries on his 4-year-old son with a wooden switch. He sat out the final 15 games of the season while tangling with the league over the discipline.
Peterson’s agent has said the star running back wants to play elsewhere next season. But the Vikings say they have no plans to trade him.
“We look forward to Adrian re-joining the Vikings,” the team said in a statement issued after the announcement.
Despite several cordial meetings with Vikings officials, Peterson’s public stance on returning to the only NFL team he has ever played for has been uneasy at best.
Agent Ben Dogra took the stance a step further in March by declaring Peterson no longer wanted to return to Minnesota, setting up a stare-down of sorts between the two sides.
Vikings general manager Rick Spielman has told Dogra he doesn’t plan to release Peterson, who recently turned 30.
The Vikings have leverage with Peterson’s contract, which covers the next three years including a $12.75 million salary for 2015. However, none of the remaining money is guaranteed.
Jaguars: Linebacker Paul Posluszny agreed to a one-year contract extension that restructures his salary. Posluszny’s new deal will pay him $15 million over three seasons.
Patriots: The White House announced the Super Bowl champions will be welcomed by President Barack Obama on April 23.
Redskins: Kicker Kai Forbath re-signed.