Peterson Shows Up To OTAs Ready To Work
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Vikings are going through the offseason paces. That's what they do this time of year – evaluate and then re-evaluate in training camp.
The Vikings had good attendance, and kind of like spring training, this time of year there is always optimism.
What is different is that compared to a year ago, they are not faced with the same questions about Adrian Peterson's status. Last year his future was in doubt.
This week, he showed up and looked AP ready.
Just because Peterson is present doesn't mean it's one well-oiled machine -- not when it's the NFL.
"There's always going to be something. It's always a circus one way or another. It's nice just to concentrate on football," said head coach Mike Zimmer.
But Peterson and Zimmer have bonded since Zimmer was named head coach. It's a relationship that has been nurtured, and out of it has been born trust.
"I feel like we have a real good relationship. Truthful with one another, open. He can tell me what's on his mind without holding anything back. I do the same as well," Peterson said.
Like the ones that are driven, Peterson is pleased with the past, but sees room for improvement.
"The biggest thing is just me being more patient. That's something that of course you go through practice reps and doing that as well," Peterson said, "but that was something I was more conscious of last year. That'll be a easier transition for me."
He will never be known as the team's leader, but he is trying to show some leadership to young players who look up to AP.
"The older guys and the veterans, they understand what we're trying to accomplish and the young guys, they do too," said Peterson.
"But I feel like it's my job to embrace them and encourage them. I've actually pulled a couple of the young guys to the side and briefly talked to them, let them know that I've been watching them, I'm liking what I'm seeing."