Adrian Peterson: ‘I’ll Take A Deep Breath And Be Ready To Roll’

USA Today

After rough year of dealing with off-the-field issues and playing in only one game for the Minnesota Vikings last season, superstar running back Adrian Peterson will get back on the gridiron on Monday on the road against the San Francisco 49ers.

Peterson talked about finally getting back to work after more than a year without football, via Ben Goessling of ESPN:

“I know from the past that when I go into a game and I’m too wired up, then you kind of forget about your principles when you’re out there, being slower and letting things develop,” Peterson said. “I’m conscious of that, and when that first snap comes — whenever it is, first, second play, third play, second series, I don’t know — I’ll take a deep breath and be ready to roll.”

The Vikings will head into the 2015 NFL season with 30/1 odds to win Super Bowl 50. Minnesota may be somewhat flying under the radar this season, but have a talented squad on both sides of the football and company and could surprise a lot of people.

Despite not having played in a regular season game for over a year, Peterson is still considered to be one of the best running backs in the game. Peterson currently has 15/1 odds to win NFL MVP this season with only Tom Brady (11/2), Aaron Rodgers (11/2) and Andrew Luck (4/1) sporting better odds, according to Sportsbook.ag.

Peterson is also expected to be the leading rusher in the NFL this season. The 30-year-old currently has 7/2 odds to have the most rushing in the league this season ahead of Jeremy Hill (7/1), Jamaal Charles (8/1) and Marshawn Lynch (8/1).

The emergence of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and the addition of wide receiver Mike Wallace should help shoulder the load offensively in Minnesota meaning Peterson could have another big year. Peterson coming out on top as the leading rusher in the NFL is possible as long as he’s able to stay healthy.