It is simply mathematics.
Adrian Peterson will be owed $18 million next season. That is too much for a soon to be 32-year-old running back who has had surgeries on both knees.
The Vikings are willing to compromise, but will AP?
According to two sources with direct knowledge of the situation, Minnesota wants Peterson to retire as a valued member of the organization. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Peterson in the same purple-trimmed uniform in 2017.
To make it happen, the two sides would need to reach an agreement on a renegotiated salary.
Though it remains to be seen how willing Peterson will be to drastically alter his salary, this deal was done in part to create a decision for 2017.
Peterson could bet on himself on the open market or decide money isn’t as important as trying to get a ring before his career is over.
One thing for sure, by the time his $6 million roster bonus is due in March a decision will have to be made.