Vikings running back Adrian Peterson returned to Winter Park on Tuesday and addressed the media for the first time since he was issued a warrant for his arrest on Sept. 12 for using a switch to discipline his 4-year-old son. You can read the full story here.
He participated in the team's fourth organized team activity session before stepping up to the podium and apologizing for his actions.
"I made a mistake, and I'm not taking it lightly at all," Peterson said. "It's something that I regret. My son knows that, the people that truly know me, know my character and know what type of character I am when I'm with my kids. They know that as well, and that's really, to me, all that matters."
Peterson said he has met all of his counseling requirements and has a great relationship with his son, along with the rest of his children.
"I'm comfortable with knowing my intentions, and I'm comfortable with knowing my child loves me and wants to be around me," Peterson said. "I love all my kids with all my heart. There's nothing I wouldn't do for them."
Peterson said Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer played a big role in the reason he returned to the organization during OTAs, which aren't mandatory to attend. Peterson said he didn't attend OTAs last week because he had a personal obligation.
"To be honest with you, I just wanted to [come back]," Peterson said. "I had a long time to really think about things and ultimately what it came down to was getting back in the building. I've been working out hard. Been keeping my body in shape and it came down to getting back in the building, being around my teammates, being around the coaches. Getting back into the swing of things. I reached out and gave them a heads up, 'Hey, I'll be in town and I'll be coming in.'"
He stated during parts of the offseason the possibility of playing somewhere else, retiring or even trying to pursue track.
