Emmitt Smith would like to be there if Adrian Peterson breaks his record

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Sep 22, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) rushes for 4 yards against the Cleveland Browns in the fourth quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Browns win 31-27. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) rushes for 4 yards against the Cleveland Browns in the fourth quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Browns win 31-27. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /

If there is anyone that can take down the NFL’s all-time rushing record that is currently held by former Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith, it would be the one and only Adrian Peterson.

There is still a long way to go for Peterson, who is just nearing the halfway point of Smith’s record of 18,355 yards, but Peterson could make up some considerable ground with a few more incredible seasons.

Many athletes don’t like to see their records fall, but if Peterson was ever to get to the point where he can eclipse Smith’s mark, Emmitt says that he would like to be there.

I’m very proud to see what Adrian has been able to accomplish thus far, especially after the devastating knee injury a couple years ago,” Smith told SportsDayDFW.com. “To see him bounce back last year and have over 2,000 yards rushing is nothing short of remarkable. Can he do it? Hey, I’m not going to say no one can ever achieve that level because I was able to achieve it myself. It’s not reserved for me.

“Records are made to be broken. All I can do is sit back and say: Good luck, go for it and the day that you get close to it, please call me and invite me so I can come watch.”

Realistically, Peterson’s body will break down due to his style before he has enough time to go down in the record books. However, this is the same player that had one of the best seasons in NFL history shortly after shredding his knee.

It won’t be easy for Peterson, but it sure will be fun to watch him attempt to get within reach.