What should you expect from @adrianpeterson this preseason?
Hear what he says: http://t.co/1SutuTQpnG pic.twitter.com/hTHNFc91li
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 5, 2014
It’s not a big surprise, but Vikings running back Adrian Peterson will not play in Friday night’s preseason opener against the Oakland Raiders, even though he jokingly told reporters he would likely receive some significant carries.
“Talking with coach Zim, I think its going to be about 10 to 15 carries,” joked Peterson.
The 2012 NFL MVP has not carried a football during a preseason game in almost three years.
Adrian Peterson hasn't carried the ball in a preseason game since Aug. 27, 2011 — played two snaps vs. SF a year ago.
— Andrew Krammer (@Andrew_Krammer) August 5, 2014
According to the Star Tribune, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said every other healthy player will be available when the Vikings kick off against the Raiders on Friday night at TCF Bank Stadium.
Zimmer had already said he didn’t need to see anything from Peterson during preseason. Even with the Vikings switching to a new scheme under offensive coordinator Norv Turner this season, Peterson may not see any preseason game carries.
“Of course with the new offense, you might want to get out there and get a couple of plays in but that’ll be something I’ll sit down with coach Zimmer and talk about,” Peterson said.
Peterson said it will be exciting to see the young guys out there. Matt Asiata – who filled in when Peterson missed two of the final three games of last season with injuries – and third round draft pick Jerick McKinnon will see a good portion of the snaps against the Raiders.
“I’ll be tuned in to see those guys play,” said Peterson. “I’ll be in tune, coaching as well and cheering for those guys.”
