The Minnesota Vikings and Adrian Peterson should explore ways to let the veteran running back finish his career with the team, according to Peterson's father.
Peterson has spent his entire 10-year career with the Vikings, and he has an $18 million option for 2017, including a $6 million roster bonus due March 11. The Vikings must decide whether to ask him to rework that deal or release him outright.
"Finishing your career in one place (has value)," Nelson Peterson said. "I look at how Arizona treated Larry (Fitzgerald), how they are taking care of guys who have been there."
Nelson Peterson is referring to when the Cardinals extended Fitzgerald's contract in 2015 on a reduced rate. Fitzgerald, who is playing on a base salary of $11 million, has remained productive in Arizona, leading the league with 107 receptions last season.
Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said this week he hasn't spoken to Adrian Peterson's agent. "In my mind, regardless of whether Adrian is here or not here next year because of whatever happens, he will always be a Minnesota Viking."
Peterson, 31, won an MVP in 2012 and ranks 16th all time in rushing yards with 11,747, but he has failed to eclipse 40 carries in two of the past three seasons because of suspension and a torn meniscus that has since healed.
Peterson recently told ESPN's First Take he would like to remain in Minnesota but would be intrigued by the Houston Texans, New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers if he becomes a free agent.
