Adrian Peterson Return To Minnesota Vikings Was Inevitable

Dec 8, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs onto the field during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

For the longest time the two sides appeared at a deadlock with Adrian Peterson doing everything in his power to move the Minnesota Vikings off their stance on his current contract.

He demanded a trade. They said either a 1st round pick or he’s not going anywhere.

He threatened a holdout. They said he can play for them or sit.

In the end the Vikings knew that irresistible pull of playing football was going to overwhelm Peterson to the point that he would have to drop his complaints and report for duty. Sure enough at the start of June, word came out the 31-year old running back plans to return for Organized Team Activities.

This must go down as a huge win for the Minnesota Vikings. Not only did they avoid having to trade Peterson, but also got him back in the locker room without having to pay him a single cent more than what they already are. On the flip side his return could be the missing ingredient to what is a blossoming young offense with quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, receivers Mike Wallace, Jarius Wright and Cordarrelle Patterson and tight end Kyle Rudolph.

Head coach Mike Zimmer also has the defense aiming towards a possible top 10 ranking as well given the upgrades they’ve made this off-season. The one thing that is needed to make things function at the highest level is somebody to help control the clock and limit the number of snaps they play on the field. Who better to do that than a six-time Pro Bowler and former NFL MVP?

He may not like it, but Adrian Peterson had the choice of either sitting for another season or playing football. His choice is clear, and the Vikings will benefit.

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