Former MVP running back Adrian Peterson is expected to be back on the field next year, although whether he'll return as a Minnesota Viking is in question. While the Vikings have publicly stated they want Peterson back, he is indicating he's lost trust in the front office and may want to play somewhere else.
#Vikings have tried to mend fences, with Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer reaching out to Peterson. To no avail. He wants a fresh start.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 20, 2015
If Peterson, who rushed for more than 2,000 yards in his 2013 MVP campaign won't play in Minnesota he may have to be released. He's owed $12.7 million this season, which escalates to $14.7 million in 2016 and $16.7 million in 2017. At 29 years old, it's unlikely teams will be willing to commit so much money to a position that is decreasing in value.
If he is granted his release, here are the three best spots for Peterson.
Dallas Cowboys
30 is a magic number for running backs, but because Peterson missed virtually all of last year, he has less mileage on his odometer. DeMarco Murray, Dallas' current free agent, led the NFL in rushing last season but carried the rock 392 times last season. He could command big bucks this offseason, and the Cowboys may decide that Peterson is not only more durable, but has a better chance of longevity behind Dallas' dominant offensive line.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have had major issues at running back for years, and even though Daniel "Boom" Herron showed promise last season, his fumbling problems will likely ruin him. Andrew Luck is arguably the best quarterback in the NFL, but with lots of holes on defense, the Colts may use a chunk of their $36 million of cap space to make the offense virtually unstoppable.
Atlanta Falcons
Not much is known yet about how Dan Quinn will approach offense as a head coach, but what is known is that the Falcons running game has been weak for a few seasons in a row. The passing game talent remains elite, but adding a dynamic runner like Adrian Peterson in the mix could be enough to put the Dirty Birds over the top in the NFC South, which was won by the 7-9 Carolina Panthers in 2014.
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