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In his first public words since the craziness that went down yesterday, Minnesota Vikings' running back Adrian Peterson released a statement about his current status. Here is the entirety of that statement, via Pro Football Talk.
I was pleased to learn about Judge Doty's decision. It is a positive step in protecting players' rights and preserving due process for all players. It also brings me one step closer to getting back on the football field and playing the sport I love. As I prepare for my return to football, I am still focused on my family and continue to work to become a better father every day. I want to express my gratitude for all of the support I have received from the fans, NFLPA, Jeffrey Kessler, and my agents Ben Dogra, Tracy Lartigue, and Mark Heligman from Relativity Sports.
Absolutely no mention of the Vikings in his statement, which can be interpreted any number of ways. Personally, I'm not sure what it all means.
Per numerous sources yesterday, Peterson can talk to the team while he's on the Commissioner's Exempt List. The team can also restructure his contract, trade him, or release him when the new league year starts on 10 March. No word as of yet on whether or not the Vikings and Peterson will be meeting before that happens, though one would certainly think that something would be in the offing.
UPDATE: Peterson's agent, Ben Dogra, has also released a statement.
I am pleased that U.S. District Judge David Doty recognized the merits of Adrian Peterson's case and ruled in his favor. This is an important moment for Adrian, players' rights, and the NFLPA. Adrian is an exceptional community member, father, husband and athlete who will continue to contribute meaningfully on and off the field. Any NFL team will be fortunate to have Adrian on its roster as he will consistently serve as a strong leader and impactful performer.
Check out the last sentence. . ."any NFL team will be fortunate to have Adrian."
Doesn't sound like an agent that's terribly interested in bringing his client back to Minnesota, though it could all be gamesmanship at this point in the proceedings.