Peterson to Play Sunday Despite Abuse Charges

Vikings running back is reinstated by Vikings, says he's 'not a perfect parent'
By Jenn Gidman,  Newser Staff
Posted Sep 15, 2014 6:53 PM CDT
Adrian Peterson to Play Sunday Despite Abuse Charges
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson warms up before the start of an NFL football game between the St. Louis Rams and the Minnesota Vikings on Sept. 7, 2014.   (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)

The NFL has been rocked by domestic violence allegations, most notably in the Ray Rice and Adrian Peterson cases, but Peterson will play Sunday against the Saints after being reinstated by the Vikings today, the AP reports. As debate rages on about what punishment should be doled out to the running back for allegedly abusing his 4-year-old son—with some saying the discipline he administered is "perfectly legal"—Vikings GM Rick Spielman says the team is "trying to do the right thing," adding the team "[believes] he deserves to play while the legal process plays out."

Meanwhile, Peterson issued a statement today through his agency in which he said he wants "everyone to understand how sorry I feel about the hurt I have brought to my child. I am not a perfect son. I am not a perfect husband. I am not a perfect parent, but I am, without a doubt, not a child abuser." (More Adrian Peterson stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X