When the Minnesota Vikings decided to cut Adrian Peterson, it was a surprising move but one they felt needed to be made to clear up money and move forward. When the Vikings signed former Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray, it meant that Peterson was moving on to another team for the first time in his NFL career. Peterson told ESPN that he has made his choice and will sign with the new orleans Saints for a two-year deal with $7 million.
Adrian Peterson's journey as a free agent
When Adrian Peterson did not sign with a team in the first week of NFL free agency, it was a surprise.
Even at his age, Peterson has been one of the top running backs in the NFL and even led the league in rushing two years ago. However, coming off an injury and with the Minnesota Vikings cutting him, it brought up doubts. By the second week, rumors started to circulate that Adrian wanted too much money. Peterson visited the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots and the Oakland Raiders were also on the radar. However, it took until the week of the 2017 NFL Draft for Adrian Peterson to find a new home with the New Orleans Saints.
Adrian Peterson's new contract details
All the details of the upcoming Adrian Peterson contract with the New Orleans Saints came from Peterson's mouth while talking to ESPN.
Peterson, 32, signed a one-year deal with a one-year option with the Saints worth $7 million in base pay - much less than his rumored asking rate. He will make $3.5 million with $1 million guaranteed in 2017 and it includes a $2.5 million signing bonus. He could max his incentives at $8.25 million and the incentives are added to his 2018 salary.
2018 would be $3.5 million, none guaranteed, and also includes $2.4 million in roster bonuses.
Adrian Peterson and the New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints already have a starting running back in Mark Ingram but Adrian Peterson is good enough to take the job away from Ingram. However, with both players on the team, Adrian can rest his legs through the season and not have to carry the load he did with the Minnesota Vikings.
The best news for Peterson is that he will play with the best quarterback of his career in Drew Brees. Adrian has never had a superstar quarterback to take pressure off him and that could possibly lead to another breakout year for Peterson, regardless of age concerns. Adrian also pointed out a great offensive line and wonderful fan base. The biggest news is that the Saints play the Vikings in the first Monday Night Football game of the season.
