Adrian Peterson Rumors: Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders In The Mix For Vikings’ Running Back

For the first time in his illustrious career, Adrian Peterson might play for someone other than the Minnesota Vikings. The team declined to pick up the running back’s option for the 2017 NFL season.

Peterson isn’t ready to retire, making him potentially one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. Even though he’s coming off a season plagued by injuries and unimpressive numbers, he’s certain to have plenty of suitors.

Just because Peterson is without a contract, that doesn’t mean he won’t sign a new deal at a reduced price with the Vikings. Both sides have acknowledged that they are open to a reunion, and they have until March 9 before Peterson can officially hit free agency.

“The door is still open to find some common ground,” Peterson told ESPN’s Josina Anderson Tuesday. “I understand addressing the offensive line is one of their main priorities this offseason. In the meantime, I will explore my other options and see what path God leads me on. My main goal remains the same: to win a Super Bowl championship with a great team, which I also believe we have in Minnesota.”

Minnesota, however, will likely have a lot of competition for Peterson’s services. Before playing just three games in 2016, Peterson ran for 1,485 yards in the previous season. He has seven seasons of more than 1,250 rushing yards.

Even teams that don’t necessarily need a running back will consider adding Peterson. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that the Dallas Cowboys will pursue Peterson if he becomes available. Owner Jerry Jones wants to pair Peterson with Ezekiel Elliott, who led the NFL in rushing as a rookie last season.

Peterson seems to have his eyes on several teams. Speaking with Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Peterson’s father even mentioned the Vikings’ chief rival as a possible destination.

If Peterson does leave Minnesota, he’ll join a team that he feels can contend for a title. Peterson and the Vikings reached the NFC Championship Game in 2010, but he doesn’t have any playoff wins outside of that season, never reaching the Super Bowl.

During this year’s playoffs, Peterson appeared on ESPN’s “First Take.” He mentioned the Giants, Texans and Tampa Bay Buccaneers as teams that he would consider joining. In that interview, Peterson says he hopes to play five more years in the NFL.

Houston defeated Oakland on Wild-Card Weekend, while New York lost to Green Bay in the first round. Green Bay defeated Dallas in the divisional round before losing in the conference title game.

Tampa Bay and Minnesota both failed to reach the playoffs this past season. The Buccaneers went 9-7 and the Vikings finished at 8-8 and in third place in the NFC North.