Just a few weeks ago, the Minnesota Vikings stressed that they were not looking at running backs in free agency; confident Adrian Peterson would run the position in 2015. Peterson was reinstated and many believed he was prepared to return to the franchise. However, Peterson is having second thoughts about his place in Minnesota and could be aiming to head elsewhere. While Minnesota holds the power with Peterson, they are suddenly eyeing players on the market.
With the future of Peterson unknown at this point, the Minnesota Vikings announced a one-year contract extension for Matt Asiata. The backup emerged last year and put up 570 yards and nine touchdowns while also ranking second on the team with 44 catches out of the backfield once he was named the starter. Asiata proved he is a reliable option as a starting running back which led the Vikings to re-sign him according to the Minnesota Star-Tribune. Asiata could pair up with Jerick McKinnon and split the carries like they did all of last season while Peterson was suspended.
However, is that enough for the Vikings or will they add another body in free agency? If the Vikings are going to sign someone else, they need to hurry. Frank Gore, Mark Ingram and Shane Vereen have already been swept off the market. If the team wanted to go big, they could try and sign DeMarco Murray or CJ Spiller to a deal. However, they would be expensive. Players like Stevan Ridley or Roy Helu could be strong options as well as a rookie in what is being called a strong NFL Draft class.
The Vikings have yet to announce their decision on the future of Peterson. According to ESPN.com, the running back has told the Vikings has is not interested in returning. However, Minnesota has the leverage since Peterson is still under contract. If they do not want to get rid of the running back then they do not have to. Trade interest is not around for Peterson considering his high salary cap hit so if the running back wants to play elsewhere he has to hope Minnesota simply releases him.
