Adrian Peterson rumors: Lions interested?

Adrian Peterson is still looking for his next team, and the Detroit Lions look like a good fit.

Adrian Peterson is still looking for his next team, as a 32-year old running back that has missed most of two of the last three seasons. Of course he did lead the NFL in rushing during the season in-between, with 1,485 yards in 2015, but that came with carry volume (327) rarely seen for one back in current offenses around the league.

Thus far we’ve seen more denials than confirmations of interest in Peterson, as teams haven’t reciprocated reports of interest and public comments from his end. Green Bay Packers’ general manager Ted Thompson has acknowledged the team’s need to add a running back, but declined to say anything specific about Peterson.

Another NFC North team could also be looking to add a running back, and their general manager had something specific to say about Peterson.

Lion’s general manager Bob Quinn went so far as to say he thinks Peterson has something left, while not confirming the team is pursuing him. Keeping things close to the vest is expected, and perhaps recommended, but otherwise it’s easy to tie the Lions to interest in Peterson.

The Lions finished 30th in the league in rushing last season (81.9 yards per came), with a dismal 3.7 yards per carry (27th in the league). The return to health of Ameer Abdullah (foot) should help, but the Lions have added to their offensive line in free agency without adding another back to bolster their running game.

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Peterson’s initial asking price has probably kept teams from signing him, and his subsequent denial of that report was easy to predict. The Lions seem to be trying to keep their options open, but they have been mentioned as a landing spot for Peterson before and they can provide an opportunity to play against the Vikings twice a year. If it’s the “I’ll show you” angle Peterson wants, Detroit is an obvious landing spot.