Vikings Hope Peterson Can Return For 2012 Opener

Added on Dec 26, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

The Minnesota Vikings are doing some of that wishful thinking in regards to their injured star running back. The torn left ACL suffered by Adrian Peterson in Saturday’s win over the Redskins will take a minimum of eight months to heal. In theory, he could be ready for the 2012 season opener. In reality, even if he does suit up, he’ll be nowhere near 100% healthy. The Vikings know this, but have little choice but to hope for the best.

There’s never a good time for a running back to have his knee shredded. However, in late December of a 3-12 season is perhaps the worst time for such an injury to occur. Peterson is a freakish athlete and at 26, he’s still young enough to overcome the damage inflicted. But his rare combination of power and speed, as well as his fearless running style will be impacted, especially if he returns too soon.

That hasn’t stopped head coach Leslie Frazier from remaining positive about Peterson’s availability at the start of 2012.

“But I talked to Adrian on the plane on the way home last night. He’s down, of course. But he will attack his rehab viciously. He is such a strong-minded guy. We won’t know everything about the damage until the surgery is done, but we think if everything goes perfectly, Adrian will be back to play at the start of next season. I think he’ll turn out to be one of those case studies people look at when they want to see how a guy rehabbed to come back strong.”

If reports are accurate, there could be trauma to the MCL and surrounding areas. Again, not a very promising outlook.

The injury is being compared to the one suffered by Edgerrin James in 2001 when he was with the Colts. He tore his ACL in Week 7 and was able to return for Week 1 of the 2002 season. He went on to start 14 of 16 games, but finished with only 989 yards and two touchdowns. It’s also important to note he was three years younger than AP.

Every case is different. Rehab regimens are more advanced now than they were just ten years ago. Peterson could make a full recovery in record time, but history isn’t on his side. For a back that relies on strength in his legs to dominate, the future doesn’t look bright.

Source: NFL.com