Adrian Peterson is a running back. His job is to find holes -- big and small -- created by his offensive line.
It would seem physical contact on the practice field would be an assumed part of the gig. But then you wouldn't know the new AP Rules at Minnesota Vikings training camp.
"The rules are simple," said safety Jamarca Sanford, via the Star Tribune. "Do not touch 28. If you touch him, you're cut."
Peterson returned to practice Sunday, 7 ½ months after having surgery to reconstruct his left knee. The Vikings are tentatively optimistic their franchise star will be ready for Week 1. Peterson is convinced it will happen.
"Despite what everyone else had to say, that was my vision," Peterson said, via 1500ESPN.com. "I seen a vision. I knew it was going to be a journey, a path, to get closer to that vision, and I'm closer.
"I see it. It's closer now. It was far away in the beginning, but I've been working hard and just moving forward. So, hopefully, here in a couple weeks -- here in a couple weeks, not hopefully -- that vision will be right there in front of me in my lap. So, I'm looking forward to it."
We understand Minnesota's play-it-safe attitude here, but it seems a bit odd instructing your defense to treat Peterson like a piece of fine china. Maybe Jerry Rice has a point.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.
