Adrian Peterson says ‘dream scenario’ would be to play for Texans

Adrian Peterson will once again be looking for work this offseason after he was released by the Arizona Cardinals, and the veteran running back knows exactly which team he would sign with if he had his choice.

The Houston Texans.

Peterson grew up in Palestine, Texas, which is about a 2-3 hour drive from Houston. In an interview with TMZ this week, he hesitated when asked what his “dream scenario” would be for 2018 before admitting he has always thought about playing for the Texans.

“Obviously being back home would be awesome. It is what it is. It’s a long shot. They’ve got a good running back in (Lamar) Miller and a guy coming off an injury in (D’Onta) Foreman.

“Being back here at home where I work out every day. My family is here. My family is close. My mom is here. Being around her a little more during this time would be even more a cherry on top. … Houston has always been a team I’ve thought about.”

Peterson said he feels the Texans are in a position to contend both on defense and offense.

“The defense is incredible, obviously,” he said. “Good division to be in. Good young quarterback, receivers, (DeAndre) Hopkins. It’s a lot of talent there as well.”

Coming off a year in which he averaged just 3.5 yards per carry and saw his season end prematurely because of a neck injury, the soon-to-be 33-year-old Peterson will not be able to choose any destination he wants in free agency. He has made similar comments in the past about wanting to play for a specific team, but Peterson had trouble finding a team to sign him a year ago. It will be even tougher this offseason.