Adrian Peterson Talks Returning to the Field, Teddy Bridgewater, and Ice Cream
Lindsey Young
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Arguably, the most anticipated player arriving at Vikings training camp Saturday morning was running back Adrian Peterson. After missing an entire year on the field and sparking plenty of drama off the field, things seem to finally be returning to order as No. 28 will be back in purple on Sundays.
Hundreds of fans welcomed Peterson in Mankato with “MVP” chants, and he addressed the media shortly after arriving. Peterson said the following about returning to the field:
[pull_quote_center]I feel pretty good. It feels good to be out here with the fellas and get back into the swing of things and open my mind back to the playbook and what Coach is asking us to do. It’s been pleasant.[/pull_quote_center]
Peterson referred to the happenings of the last year as “curve balls” and credited the coaching staff for helping everything come together to the point that it has.
There’s no denying Peterson’s natural athletic ability, and he assured the media and fans alike that he hasn’t taken a step back after missing the 2014 season. He said a few days of practice brought everything back, and he’s been mentally and physically preparing to be back on the field.
When asked about fellow RB Jerick McKinnon, who’s entering his sophomore season, Peterson described him as a “young guy who’s improving.” He said McKinnon is playing well and seems more patient than he did coming in as a rookie, which will certainly benefit him moving forward.
Peterson spoke about other teammates as well, including quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
[pull_quote_center][Teddy]’s even more of a leader [this season],” Peterson said. “His control, his understanding of the offense, just being that guy that facilitates the ball to the guys around him. Being able to read defenses and deliver the ball on a dime. He looks more crisp and sharp.[/pull_quote_center]
Peterson fielded a few questions about head coach Mike Zimmer, and he had nothing but good things to say. It’s clear that Zimmer has made an impact on Peterson, and the two seemed to have maintained a strong relationship over the past year despite everything that’s happened off the field.
“He’s more open,” Peterson said of Zimmer. “He always seemed to have a sense of humor, to me, the short time I was around him last year, and even more so now. I see him walking around and talking with [players], see a smile on his face from time to time. Normally he has that serious face on, but that’s good. Guys feel comfortable around, but [they also] respect him.”
When asked about his own expectations of production and role on the team, Peterson offered all the “right” answers. He responded that he’s ready to do whatever the coaches and team are looking for.
“I’m sure they have some good stuff on tape, and I’ll leave it in their hands to decide what they want to do,” Peterson said.
Along those lines, Peterson acknowledged the type of offense Minnesota–and really the league as a whole–is leaning toward and the importance of running backs being involved in the passing game and increasing their receptions. Historically, that area is not one Peterson has had much influence in, but he said he’s looking forward to playing a role there in 2015.
Among some tough topics, one reporter gave Peterson some relief from football-related questions, asking him if there’s anything in Minnesota he’s missed besides being on the field. The RB laughed, responding that he missed going to Redstone [Grill] in Eden Prairie for dinner.
“And Coldstone,” he added, smiling. “I’ve been craving some Coldstone.”
Only in Minnesota, and only with Adrian Peterson.
To view the entire press conference, click here.