As Adrian Peterson arrived at U.S. District Court Friday, five blocks from where the new Vikings stadium is being built, I asked him a question that made him laugh … a little.
Are we ever going to see you this close to the Dome again?
You may decide for yourself what kind of laugh Peterson gave me by viewing startribune.com/video.
After the court hearing, Peterson came outside to greet fans and address the media. He said, "Of course," when asked if he wanted to remain with the Vikings.
The Vikes' all-time leading rusher is fighting the NFL suspension handed out after he pleaded no-contest to assault charges stemming from his discipline of a 4-year-old son. That suspension is scheduled to end April 15 if he meets certain conditions.
Peterson's coach and some teammates say they want the superstar running back, but I've also heard concern that No. 28's pride may prompt him to seek a fresh start. As dailynorseman.com noted, the Wilf family also is probably trying to assess what kind of hit the franchise would take from sponsors and the public if Peterson returns. There's also a salary cap issue.
Two points in support of AP, from me:
First is a name: Richie Incognito. Jonathan Martin's personal bully when they were both Dolphins, has landed a deal with the Bills.