The people of power at 9520 Vikings Drive in Eden Prairie are all saying they want Adrian Peterson back with the Vikings next season.
Vikings co-owner Mark Wilf and Chief Operating Officer Kevin Warren each said last week they would “love” Peterson to return.
General manager Rick Spielman, speaking to reporters at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday, gave a more definitive answer when asked about Peterson’s future.
“We expect Adrian Peterson to be part of our football team,’’ Spielman said, according to the Pioneer Press.
He later said Peterson “will be back” during an interview with Mike Florio from NBC Sports.
“I think we’ll assess everything but I know right now our main focus is that Adrian Peterson will be back with the Minnesota Vikings next year,” he said.
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Today is really the first time Spielman has said he "expects" Peterson back. Of course, it doesn't rule anything else out.
— Brian Hall (@MNBrianHall) February 18, 2015
Spielman on Peterson: "We're assuming he's taking all the steps to get back onto the field."
— Brian Hall (@MNBrianHall) February 18, 2015
Spielman added that the entire organization is “on the same page” about Peterson. “What team wouldn’t want Adrian Peterson talent?” he said.
Spielman: "Gonna get a fresh Adrian who is probably not your typical 30yr old RB…he'll play with a chip on his shoulder." #KFANCombine
— KFAN1003 (@KFAN1003) February 18, 2015
The GM declined to discuss the possibility of Peterson being asked to restructure his contract. He’s due $12.75 million next season.
Take NFL words with a grain of salt
Pro Football Talk warns that the Vikings were once adamant that Percy Harvin wasn’t going anywhere, too. In February of 2013 Spielman said they had “no intent” of trading Harvin. Less than a month later Harvin was a Seattle Seahawk.
Vikings offensive coordinator Norv Turner also joined the group of important people on the team that support Peterson’s return.
Norv Turner: "Everyone from the players to the staff, everyone in our organization would be thrilled to have Adrian back." #NFLCombine
— KFAN1003 (@KFAN1003) February 18, 2015
Peterson remains suspended and cannot apply for reinstatement until April 15.
