The window is officially open for Adrian Peterson to be reinstated back into the NFL. The running back has held meetings with Commissioner Roger Goodell and a decision could come at any time. According to NBC News, Goodell will first hold a periodic review and then make a call on Peterson. However, just because Peterson can get back into the NFL does not necessarily mean he plans on rejoining the Vikings who have kicked off offseason workouts. With a trade looming, will Minnesota make the move?
Peterson reportedly does not want to return to Minnesota. According to ESPN, the running back hinted that he might hold out from practices in order to force the hand of the Vikings. Ed Werder of ESPN reports Peterson can really be traded at any time regardless of whether or not he is reinstated back into the league. With all signs pointing to the running back being allowed to play next season, will Minnesota really be forced to make a move?
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport at pinpointed both the Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars as the two teams most interested in acquiring Peterson. The Cowboys interest has been reported for the better part of a year and the feeling is mutual. The Dallas Morning News reports that Peterson told owner Jerry Jones he wants to play for Dallas and given he lives in Texas, the move makes sense. The Cowboys officially have the means to acquire Peterson after restructuring Tony Romo's contract, but are they willing to pay the heavy price Minnesota will likely command for Peterson?
It is unknown what the Vikings would command for Peterson. His high-priced contract is already difficult to take on for any team so giving up draft picks along with it is not ideal. According to the Pioneer Press, the Vikings are very comfortable retaining Peterson in 2015 and might actually favor it unless a team comes by with a big offer. The Vikings have Matt Asiata and Jerick McKinnon as their duo at the moment. They proved successful last season and could pick up where they left off. Are they good enough to make Peterson expendable?
Dallas is taking all the steps to prepare themselves for not trading for Peterson. They have worked out all of the top running back prospects while NFL.com reports they could easily draft someone like Todd Gurley in the first round. When Peterson is reinstated interest could heat up. However for now most teams are remaining coy about their intentions.
