The Minnesota Vikings have been operating under the impression that once fully reinstated back into the NFL, Adrian Peterson would simply rejoin the team and carry on as normal. However, the running back has different plans and after a positive meeting with Commissioner Roger Godell, Peterson is looking for a change rather than a return to normal. Could Peterson be hinting to the Dallas Cowboys to make a move?
The Vikings have the power in the Peterson situation, but the running back is making it clear that he would like them to understand that a change is preferred for 2015. According to ESPN's Josina Anderson, Peterson is anxious for a new chapter and wants out of Minnesota. While he feels the Vikings supported him through the child abuse allegations, he would prefer to play elsewhere and start new. The question is whether or not that new is with the Dallas Cowboys.
With three years left on his contract including very high salary cap hits, a deal for Peterson will be hard to come by. The Cowboys paved the way by restructuring Tony Romo's contract, but that still have to offer something up for the running back and that price is unknown. The Vikings have been pushing to get Peterson back and have him run the backfield once again. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater made it clear that he favors Peterson over everyone.
"Oh, yes, no doubt,'' Bridgewater said, via the Minnesota Star Tribune. "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.''
So what happens if Peterson heads elsewhere? The first thing the Vikings will do is retain Cordarrelle Patterson. The wide receiver has been on the trade block, but the Minnesota Star Tribune is reporting that will no longer be the case. The Vikings will also look at top running back prospects in the draft. The team could target several players from Todd Gurley to Tj Yeldon and Melvin Gordon. They are the best available.
