Adrian Peterson Inducted Into Vikings Ring of Honor Ahead of Bills Game
The former MVP, who ranks fifth on the NFL's career rushing list, was honored at U.S. Bank Stadium before a matchup against Buffalo.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Adrian Peterson was inducted into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor on Monday night before the team hosted the Buffalo Bills. The former running back, selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2007 draft, watched pregame warmups with family members while wearing a purple blazer. He sounded the Gjallarhorn and led the home crowd in the overhead Skol clap before kickoff. A halftime ceremony followed, attended by dozens of former teammates.
Peterson holds the record for the most rushing yards in Vikings history. He currently ranks fifth on the NFL's career list with 14,918 yards. His last season with Minnesota was 2016, the franchise's first in U.S. Bank Stadium. He subsequently played for six teams over his final five years in the league. His most productive post-Minnesota period occurred with Washington during the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
Peterson set the single-game rushing record on Nov. 4, 2007, when he carried for 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers. That performance remains the most in NFL history. He earned seven Pro Bowl selections during his career and won three rushing titles. In 2012, he was voted the NFL's Most Valuable Player, the last non-quarterback to receive that honor.
Off the field, Peterson faced legal challenges in 2014 after being indicted on felony child abuse charges. He pleaded no contest to avoid jail time, resulting in probation, a fine, and community service. The NFL suspended him for 15 games. The situation cost the Vikings corporate sponsors and dried up Peterson's endorsements, but his popularity at the home stadium remained strong.
Peterson, who is now settled in the Houston area, spoke to reporters via video conference earlier this week. He noted that he is always embraced when visiting Minnesota to see his kids and family. He described the process of being drafted by the Vikings as an awesome experience, recalling how much he enjoyed the food at the team cafeteria. He stated that he could not have been drafted by a better organization.
Peterson said being out of the league allows him to spend more time with his children. His son, Adrian Jr., is a high school freshman who plays football and track. Peterson said the small moments with his kids keep him sane and make the transition easier. He described the experience as not always perfect but essential for his well-being.
