Adrian Peterson comes to Arizona, says ‘I have so much left’

TEMPE, ARIZ. » Adrian Peterson has joined a team with the worst running game in the NFL, a situation he’s certain he still has the ability to change.

“I have somuch left,” the 32-year-old running back told reporters Wednesday after going through his first practice with the Arizona Cardinals. “I’d love to play at least four or five more years, God willing. I have a lot left in the tank. So stay tuned, you guys will be able to see that firsthand.”

The Cardinals acquired Peterson from the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday in exchange for an undisclosed draft pick.

Peterson was not critical of his brief time with the Saints, even though he found himself relegated to third-string running back.

“I wasn’t pushing to be moved,” he said, “but I’d be lying to you to say that I didn’t want a change of scenery after four weeks seeing how things played out.”

And his reaction when he found out about the trade?

“It’s like, ‘Thank you Jesus,’” Peterson said.

Peterson played 10 seasons in Minnesota, a pow- erful, dominant running back whomfew could take downwithout considerable help.

He signed a two-year contract with the Saints this offseason but was languishing on the sidelines there.

Peterson’s numbers weren’t impressive with the Saints — 81 yards in 27 carries — but Arizona coach Bruce Arians said he liked what he saw.

“A violent runner who still has it,” Arians said. “He’s not 22 anymore but he still pours it up in there and is very exciting.”

Peterson was welcomed with open arms by wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, a good friend whom the running back described as “like family.”

Peterson said Fitzgerald insisted he stay in his guest house.

“I’ve been knowing Larry for a long time,” Peterson said, “and I’ve never heard the excitement in his voice that I heard when he called. He knows what I’ve been going through and he was just excited for me.”

Arians said Peterson will play Sunday when the Cardinals are home against Tampa Bay.

The Cardinals are averaging a league-worst 51.8 yards per game on the ground.