With the NFL offseason just around the corner, the future of Adrian Peterson will be one of the storylines to watch. The Minnesota Vikings running back is eligible to be reinstated back into the NFL in April following a suspension after child abuse allegations and many wonder if he will return to his team or head elsewhere. The Vikings have maintained that they want nothing more than to have Peterson back in Minnesota, but could salary cap issues force them to trade for former MVP instead?
According to a number of Minnesota Vikings' players, if Peterson is reinstated, the running back is wanted. The Vikings have maintained the stance that they will welcome Peterson with open arms upon his return stressing they continue to support the back throughout this trying time. Peterson's teammates are saying the same thing as both Teddy Bridgewater and Greg Jennings are hoping for his return.
"Oh, yes, no doubt,'' Bridgewater said, via the Pioneer Press. "From the brief time that I spent with him, he's a great guy. And I loved practicing with him throughout training camp, and I watched how he approached that first game of the season against St. Louis. It just really hit home with me, and I would love to play with him.''
The Vikings maintain they want the running back to return, but salary cap issues could hurt those statements from coming true. Next season, Peterson is due $12.75 million, making him the highest paid running back in the league prior to any deals that take place this offseason. However, that salary is not guaranteed which makes Peterson an easy trade or release. If Minnesota starts to get pressed for money, the running back could be the first casualty.
The Vikings are looking for upgrades at the wide receiver position along with the defense and getting as much money to work with is key. According to ESPN.com, Jennings is another player that could be let go. The wide receiver has certainly worked out for Minnesota, but he is a heavy cap hit next season and given his age, he could get released. The Vikings are trying to maintain faith in Cordarrelle Patterson, but need another big threat to make up for his struggles.
If Peterson is on the outs, the Vikings could very easily find a trade market for the running back. Peterson might be aging, but he will have very fresh legs after sitting out an entire season. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Dallas Cowboys could be eyeing Peterson as their offensive centerpiece if DeMarco Murray leaves. The Oakland Raiders and Houston Texans could also be major players for Peterson if available.
