By DAVE CAMPBELL
AP Pro Football Writer
Adrian Peterson and the Minnesota Vikings have reached a standstill in their relationship.
Peterson’s agent, Ben Dogra, said in an interview on Tuesday that he believes a return to Minnesota this season is not in the “best interest” of the standout running back.
Peterson previously expressed uneasiness about continuing to play for the Vikings, but Dogra has advanced that stance to the point of wanting out. General manager Rick Spielman has told Dogra the team doesn’t plan to release Peterson, who turned 30 on Saturday.
The Vikings have leverage with Peterson’s contract, which covers the next three years with a $12.75 million salary for 2015. However, none of the remaining money on the deal is guaranteed.
Vikings coach Mike Zimmer “fully expects” Adrian Peterson to be with the team for the 2015 season, adding Wednesday there are “no plans” to trade the star running back.
Peterson has not yet been reinstated by the NFL from his suspension under the personal conduct policy. Peterson has balked at returning to the team, questioning the Minnesota organization’s support of him after he was suspended for disciplining his 4-year-old son with a wooden switch. The case was resolved in court with a plea bargain.
One day after Peterson’s agent, Ben Dogra, reiterated that Minnesota no longer is the best place for Peterson, Zimmer said: “We’re good to go. I mean, he’s under contract and we expect him to honor it.”
Peterson’s contract has three years remaining, with a $12.75 million salary for 2015. None of the remaining money on the deal is guaranteed.
