Following the furor that surrounded Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson’s child abuse case in Texas, the team announced today that it will be reinstating its franchise player, allowing Peterson to take part in practice and meetings as the Vikings prepare for their Week 3 game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
Peterson, 29, was deactivated for Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots, one day after the running back answered to charges in Texas claiming that he had injured his four-year-old son with a tree branch while disciplining him. According to Vikings owners Zygi Wilf and Mrak Wilf, the decision to reinstate Peterson was made today “after significant thought, discussion, and consideration.” The decision to suspend Peterson on Friday was, as per the Wilfs’ statement, done “in the best interests” of the Vikings, as management decided to take stock of the situation and not rush into severe forms of punishment. “At that time, we made the decision that we felt was best for the Vikings and all parties involved,” read the statement.
“To be clear, we take very seriously any matter that involves the welfare of a child,” the statement continued. “At this time, however, we believe this is a matter of due process and we should allow the legal system to proceed so we can come to the most effective conclusions and then determine the appropriate course of action.”
The Vikings fell to 1-1 after Sunday’s home loss to the New England Patriots, losing 30-7, with Matt Cassel throwing for only one touchdown and four interceptions. Reserve running back Matt Asiata scored the Vikings’ only touchdown, but rushed for only 36 yards on 13 attempts.