The Minnesota Vikings announced Tuesday that the team will not be picking up the option on Adrian Peterson’s contract, making the running back a free agent when the new league-year opens on March 9.
“Adrian is an important part of the Minnesota Vikings organization,” Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said, in a statement issued by the team. “We will continue to have conversations with his representatives and leave our future options open while determining what is best for both parties moving forward.”
Peterson, 31, will hit the open market for the first time this offseason after spending his first 10 seasons with the Vikings and could be in the Giants’ sights as the team looks to bolster the running back position.
The Vikings declined to exercise Peterson’s option that would have paid him $18 million in 2017.
Speculation has been rampant about Peterson potentially landing with the Giants after he sent a relatively cryptic tweet earlier this offseason on Feb. 15:
The Giants been making some interesting moves.
— Adrian Peterson (@AdrianPeterson) February 16, 2017
The Giants will likely be looking for a running back either in free agency or the draft after cutting ties with Rashad Jennings last week.
Peterson finished an injury-riddled 2016 season with just 37 carries for 72 yards in three games after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus suffered in Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers.
Schefter on Peterson to Giants, Cowboys
In his career, Peterson has rushed for 11,747 yards and 97 touchdowns in 123 career games.
Matt Lombardo may be reached at MDLombardo@yahoo.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattLombardo975.
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