Adrian Peterson Quickly Finds a Team, Joins Lions on a 1-Year Deal

Adrian Peterson with Cardinals in 2017
Adrian Peterson with Cardinals in 2017. Photo by Trask Smith/CSM/REX/Shutterstock

Veteran running back Adrian Peterson didn’t take long to find another team after being released by Washington last week. According to NFL Network, Peterson decided to return to NFC North and ink a one-year deal with Detroit Lions.

Reportedly, Peterson’s deal with Detroit is worth up to $1.05 million and includes various incentives.

Peterson later confirmed the deal in a chat with ESPN’s Josina Anderson, telling the reporter that the opportunity to play more and collaborating with offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell was a deciding factor for him to chose Lions. Bevell and Peterson previously collaborated between 2007 and 2010 at Minnesota Vikings.

“They’re giving me an opportunity to play,” said Peterson. “I know Coach Bevell from my days in Minnesota. Ultimately I feel comfortable going there and helping them to get better.”

It appears that the Lions are going with a run-heavy offense in 2020, considering they already have a crowded backfield. Their depth chart includes starter Kerryon Johnson, 2020’s second-round pick D’Andre Swift, and second-year player Ty Johnson as well as several other options.

Detroit might also see Peterson as a valuable mentor to the rest of the RB group, considering that all three of the previously mentioned players are 23-years-old or less.

Peterson, who is turning 36 in March, is coming with a wealth of experience that includes seven Pro Bowls and seven All-Pro selections alongside an MVP honors in 2012. Despite his age, Peterson was productive during the past two seasons with Washington, leading the team in rushing in both 2018 and 2019. He combined for 1,940 yards and two TDs.