Adrian Peterson spoke positively about MRI results on his mid-foot sprain Monday. Despite reports to the contrary, he hasn't given up hope of playing this weekend against the Philadelphia Eagles.
A Vikings source tells NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport there's a "glimmer of hope" that Peterson plays this week, though the running back was sore and in a precautionary walking boot Monday. The team will have a better idea of Peterson's status when he tries to run Wednesday or Thursday.
ESPN's Ben Goessling reported Monday that Peterson will not need surgery. He underwent a variety of tests that determined he had no structural damage or risk for a Lisfranc sprain. Peterson suffered the injury in the 29-26 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
Peterson's toughness is unimpeachable, but it sounds like the odds are against him suiting up this week.
Minnesota's 3-9-1 record might wind up being a factor in Peterson's status. The organization would be foolish to rush him back on the field and risk a more serious foot injury when the team is stuck in last place.
Peterson missed three games with a high ankle sprain in 2011 before tearing his ACL in Week 16 of that season. He has started 29 games since.
If Peterson does miss time, the ground attack is in a bind. Coach Leslie Frazier revealed that backup Toby Gerhart "tweaked" his hamstring in Sunday's game. Third-string tailback Matt Asiata has three career carries.
We won't have a good read on this backfield until late in the week.
*The latest "Around the League Podcast" recapped all the Week 14 games. *
