There's no question that Adrian Peterson will go down in history as one of the greatest running backs of all time. In 2012, Peterson rushed for more than 2000 yards and practically earned the Vikings a playoff spot in that year. Peterson, when healthy, is extremely effective and almost always rushes for more than 1000 yards in every season. But does he have any more left in the tank now that he is 32 years old?
Washington Redskins Running Backs.
The leading rusher for Washington last season had just 704 yards. Robert Kelley didn't begin the 2016 season as the starter, but eventually took over after an injury hampered Matt Jones.
Kelley averaged a respectable 4.2 yards per carry, but that's nowhere close to Peterson's 4.9 yards per carry career average.
Matt Jones once looked like the future starter for the Redskins, but fumbling issues have prevented him from becoming the full time starter. When he played, he averaged 4.6 yards per carry, but the Redskins had numerous issues with Jones and eventually benched him.
Redskins Prolific Offense.
Adrian Peterson has never played in a truly excellent offense before. He's had to deal with quarterbacks like Christian Ponder, and even Teddy Bridgewater isn't exactly a passing maverick. The Redskins are much different.
Kirk Cousins leads one of the best passing offenses in the NFL.
When Washington runs the ball, it's a shock for everyone involved. That should help free up lanes for a player like Peterson to run through, a luxury that he hasn't had throughout his career.
Minimal Interest from NFL Teams.
Even though Peterson is widely regarded as one of the best running backs in the league, he isn't drawing much interest from the league.
Peterson is 32, and NFL teams are wisely approaching a Peterson signing with caution. But their caution gives the Redskins an opportunity.
Because there isn't much interest in Adrian, the Redskins could sign him to a short term low risk deal. Even if Peterson gets injured or plays poorly, there isn't much risk associated with signing him. If the Redskins truly want to become an elite NFL offense, they'll need a solid rushing game and Peterson would give them that option.
