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Vikings Believe Public Ready To Accept Adrian Peterson

Sep 7, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) looks on during the second half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. The Vikings defeated the Rams 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) looks on during the second half against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome. The Vikings defeated the Rams 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Vikings believe that the public will welcome back Adrian Peterson, according to a new report.

Adrian Peterson quickly became one of the most hated athletes in professional sports in September after he was charged for child-abuse.

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However, two-plus months since Peterson last appeared in a game, the Vikings believe the public is ready to forgive the running, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

The Vikings could find soon enough if their beliefs are correct.

A ruling in regards to Peterson’s status is expected by Wednesday, meaning Peterson, who has been on the commissioner’s exempt list, could be reinstated and practicing ahead of the Vikings’ Week 12 contest, according to Pro Football Talk.

Still, it’s hard to imagine football fans simply welcoming Peterson and ignoring his past behavior.

Perhaps the Vikings are simply trying to justify putting him back on the field using this line of thinking.

Peterson has been one of the top running backs in the NFL throughout his career. Last season he rushed for 1,266 yards and 12 touchdowns on 279 attempts.

The Vikings drafted Peterson with the No. 7 pick in the 2007 NFL draft out of Oklahoma.

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