Scouting report: VIKINGS VS. NEW ORLEANS
6:10 p.m. Monday • U.S. Bank Stadium • TV: ESPN, Ch. 4 • Radio: 100.3-FM, 1130-AM
About the SAINTS
• Saints are coming off three consecutive 7-9 seasons, marking the first time New Orleans has missed three consecutive postseasons since quarterback Drew Brees was acquired in 2006.
• Brees begins his 17th NFL season fewer than 6,000 passing yards shy of surpassing Brett Favre for second on the all-time list. He's averaged more than 5,000 passing yards each of the past six seasons.
• Adrian Peterson, who established his Hall of Fame career with 10 seasons for the Vikings, is now part of a three-headed Saints backfield behind starting running back Mark Ingram.
• The Saints offense will be without two starters in left tackle Terron Armstead, who underwent shoulder surgery in June, and receiver Willie Snead, who was suspended three games for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
PLAYER SPEAK:| RB ADRIAN PETERSON
• Peterson, entering his 11th season, debuts for his new team in a crowded Saints backfield alongside Ingram, the established starter, and rookie Alvin Kamara, a third-round pick.
• Peterson is 16th on the all-time rushing list with 11,747 yards, second among active rushers behind only Indianapolis' Frank Gore (13,065).
• On his expectations for returning to Minnesota: "I think it'll be a warm welcoming reception. I don't see why it would be any other way. Ten years played there and a lot of good memories there. Being the face of the franchise for so long and giving them everything I've got."
• On playing with Saints quarterback Drew Brees: "It's incredible, man. I see why he has had the type of success throughout his career. He's a hard worker, determined and focused and the ultimate competitor."
