The numbers are imposing, as is the man’s physical style of play. The figures are also loaded with coincidences. In ’07, the Minnesota Vikings made University of Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson the seventh overall selection in the draft. He has been a dominant force at times, running for 1,000-plus yards seven times in 10 NFL seasons. He’s also been named to a total of seven Pro Bowls.

But could the longtime workhorse of the Purple Gang actually change his address and become a member of the rival Green Bay Packers?

Is there real interest?

At the recent NFL Owners’ Meetings in Phoenix, Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy waxed poetically about the 2012 NFL MVP, who his club has faced at least twice and on one occasion three times in a single season. “Adrian Peterson is obviously someone we have great respect for, obviously playing him the number of times that we have, but we’re trying to improve our offense all the time,” said McCarthy, via ESPN’s Rob Demovsky and Mike Sando.

“So as far as what’s going on, we don’t really discuss those things publicly, but you know, I think it’s obvious if you look at our depth chart. We have two running backs on our depth chart – two healthy running backs – so we’re going to have more running backs. I don’t know when they’re going to get there, but we will have more running backs come the middle of May – I can promise you that.”

Imagine the possibilities

Those two healthy running backs McCarthy was referring to are converted wide receiver Ty Montgomery and well-traveled backup Christine Michael. The latter was recently re-signed by the Green Bay Packers. Meanwhile, the club released James Starks this offseason while Eddie Lacy signed a one-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks.

Obviously Peterson, who comes off an injury-shortened 2016 and is an unrestricted free agent, would fill a huge need. Let’s not forget that the defending NFC North champions were ranked 22nd in the league in rushing this past season. The Vikings were dead last in the same category, but they have added Latavius Murray this offseason. Can you really imagine Peterson wearing a Packers’ uniform? Why not? Green Bay did have to deal with Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre suiting up for the Norsemen for a few years.