Minnesota Vikings All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson will undergo surgery to repair a torn meniscus that he suffered in Sunday night’s victory over the Green Bay Packers.
Initially, Peterson hoped to forgo the operation in order to play in Week Three. However, after consulting with renowned physician Dr. James Andrews, who repaired his torn ACL in 2011, he opted for the procedure. Peterson could’ve had part of the meniscus taken out, instead of the repair, which is a two to four week healing process.
Adrian Peterson Will Undergo Surgery, Out At Least 3-4 Months
According to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, the 31-year-old tailback will have the surgery on Thursday morning for a “buckle handle tear” in his meniscus. The minimum recovery time is between three to four months long, but can be longer than six months.
Peterson has what is known as "bucket handle tear." I'm told that's a minm of 3-4 months out & up 6months usually. Again Peterson has faith.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 21, 2016
That being said, if anyone can return strong from a knee injury, it is Peterson. After he tore his ACL in 2011, which is considered a worse injury, he returned the following season and rushed for a league-leading 2,097 yards.
But, the ten-year-pro’s comeback may not be with the Vikings.
He has one more year on his contract and is owed $18 million. With two substantial knee injuries and him approaching 32 years old in March, the Vikings may consider releasing him. He isn’t owed any more guaranteed money, so a release would clear $18 million off the salary cap.
Also, before the injury, “All Day” wasn’t performing well, averaging just 1.6 yards per carry on 31 attempts.
The decision to keep or release the seven-time Pro Bowler, will rest on the performances of backup’s Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata.
Minnesota Vikings Backup Plan
Last season, McKinnon garnered 272 yards and two touchdowns on 52 carries and adding 21 receptions, while Asiata had 112 yards on 29 carries with 19 catches.
Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer said he has tremendous confidence in both players. He announced McKinnon as the starter for their next matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
Expect the 24-year-old back to get bulk of the work on early downs, while Asiata will be featured as the goal-line back.
The Vikings also signed free agent running back Ronnie Hillman.
