Adrian Peterson was not in attendance on the first day (Monday) of the Vikings’ voluntary offseason workout program, ESPN’s Ben Goessling reports.
The critical thing to know is that Peterson historically hasn’t taken part in the early phases of the team’s voluntary program, so his absence isn’t necessarily tied to reports that he’s upset with the team and wants to be traded. Per the Vikings, the first two weeks are limited to strength and conditioning and physical rehab.
Pro Football Talk notes that Peterson is staying in shape in Houston.
Peterson’s attendance won’t be an issue until Organized Team Activities begin May 26.
Source says Adrian Peterson's $250,000 workout bonus related only to 90 percent participation in OTAs/minicamp So next month or so no factor
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) April 19, 2015
At that point there is a possibility of Peterson playing elsewhere, although ESPN’s Adam Caplan doesn’t think the Vikings have any desire to trade him; but if they were to consider dealing the former MVP, they’d need “at least” a first-round draft pick and a starting-caliber cornerback, Caplan says.
Add Monday Morning Quarterback’s Peter King to the list of NFL insiders who believe the Vikings won’t be pressured into a trade. King writes:
“I don’t believe Vikings GM Rick Spielman will be pressured into a deal. And I don’t believe Peterson will choose to forfeit the weekly paychecks of $765,000 this season. So though it may get ugly, I think there’s an increasing chance the Vikings are not going to bend to Peterson by draft weekend unless the offer for him is a high pick or picks.”
Per usual with these Peterson stories… stay tuned because this won’t be the last you’ll read about him.
