All 32 picks of the first round of the 2015 NFL draft have been used, and none of them were traded as part of a package for Adrian Peterson. Now that it seems all but certain that Peterson is stuck in Minnesota, he wants more guaranteed money.
In an interview with Tom Pelissero of USA Today Sports on Friday, Peterson’s agent Ben Dogra completely changed his tune. He praised the Vikings for proving how committed they are to Peterson by refusing to trade him, but he said he wants to see that same level of commitment financially.
“One of the things that I appreciate with the Vikings is their resolve to say ‘we’re not trading him,'” Dogra said. “That tells me they value him not only as a football player, but what he’s done for the organization.
“I actually, as an agent, not only appreciate it — I accept it. But actions speak louder than words. If that’s going to happen, and you want to keep him, then show him a commitment to make him retire as a Viking. And I haven’t had that solution.”
Peterson has three years and $46 million remaining on his current contract, but none of it is guaranteed. The $36 million guaranteed that the deal included has already been paid out. Peterson will earn $12.75 million if he plays for the Vikings in 2015, but he recently turned 30 and could be released if he shows signs of regression.
Just as he didn’t have much leverage in demanding a trade, there isn’t a whole lot Peterson can do about his contract. His agent already tried to put pressure on the Vikings to trade him by admitting publicly that Peterson wants out of Minnesota and creating a buzz with photos like this on social media, but none of that worked. Peterson’s power-play for more guaranteed money might not work, either.
