Adrian Peterson has officially found a new home for the 2017 season, as the veteran running back confirmed on Tuesday that he will be signing with the New Orleans Saints.
Peterson told ESPN’s Josina Anderson that he will sign a two-year contract worth a total of $7 million that is basically a one-year deal with an option. He’ll make $3.5 million guaranteed in 2017 and can make up to $8.25 million total over the two years with incentives.
“I am excited to be joining the New Orleans Saints,” Peterson said. “I’m really looking forward to this opportunity. Most importantly, I chose this team because it just felt right within my spirit. Additionally, my wife and family added their confirmation with the same feelings.”
Peterson said he chose New Orleans because he feels his skills will be maximized in Sean Payton’s high-octane offense.
“On offense, it goes without saying that the Saints are really solid behind Drew Brees. I feel like my skill set can make them even more dominant as a unit,” he said. “They have a great offensive line, which is something that stood out to me as well. I could tell from talking to head coach Sean Payton over the last two weeks that he did his due diligence in evaluating how I could contribute.”
The 32-year-old also praised the Saints’ defense for being a young unit with plenty of room to grow.
As an interesting side note, the Saints are slated to face the Vikings in Minnesota in Week 1 of the NFL season. That game will be part of a “Monday Night Football” doubleheader in prime time.
Peterson is coming off a season in which he averaged just 1.9 yards per carry in limited action. He has suffered two significant knee injuries during his career, and that likely had a lot to do with why he seemingly received little interest on the free agent market. Peterson will likely play the role of backup in New Orleans, but it would not be a surprise if Payton uses more of a hot-hand approach with his backfield.
