The New York Giants have been commonly linked to pending free agent Adrian Peterson. Peterson’s free agency was made official on Feb. 28.
It’s no secret that the New York Giants are an option for free agent running back Adrian Peterson. Peterson has made it public knowledge that he’s intrigued by what the Giants have to offer as a potential free agency destination.
On Tuesday, Feb. 28, it was officially announced that Peterson’s tenure with the Minnesota Vikings would be coming to an end.
Minnesota drafted Peterson at No. 7 overall in the 2007 NFL Draft. He’s spent every season of his Hall of Fame career with the Vikings, but at 31 years of age, one of the greatest eras in the the franchise’s history has come to an end.
In a press release on Vikings.com, the Vikings officially announced that Peterson’s option will not be exercised for the 2017 season.
"The Minnesota Vikings announced today the team will not exercise the 2017 option on RB Adrian Peterson’s contract. Peterson will become an unrestricted free agent on Thursday, March 9."
In other words: the Giants now have a legitimate opportunity to sign Peterson in free agency.
Peterson led the NFL in rushing yards in 2008, 2012, and 2015, and rushing touchdowns in 2009 and 2015. He ran for a league record 296 yards on Nov. 4, 2007, and ran for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2012.
A former NFL MVP and five-time All-Pro First Team honoree, Peterson has carved out a legacy as one of the greatest running backs of all-time.
Unfortunately, Peterson is now 31 years of age and coming off of a torn meniscus and mild LCL sprain.
For the Giants, signing Peterson would mean adding a talent of elite greatness to, arguably, the weakest position on the roster. It would also run the risk of Peterson not being able to recover from a severe injury at what’s perceived to be an advanced age.
Regardless of what Jerry Reese opts to do, the Vikings’ decision to let Peterson walk has opened a door for the Giants.
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