Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson said on Friday that he fully expects to play against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Peterson has been dealing with what sounds like a family tragedy over the past couple of days, as his 2-year-old son was reportedly beaten by the boyfriend of the child’s mother and is in critical condition.
“I really appreciate all the support from fans and the Vikings,” Peterson said after Friday’s practice, per Sean Jensen of the Pioneer Press. “I ask y’all respect my privacy.”
When asked about his status for Sunday, Peterson said he will “without a doubt” be playing and added that he will be “focused” and “ready to roll.”
“I’m able to release a lot of stress through sports,” he said.
One of Peterson’s sons, 2-year-old Adrian Jr., has become a popular face around the Vikings’ facility during training camp. A number of photos have been taken of the two goofing around at practice, and it was initially believed that Adrian Jr. was the victim. It was later reported that the son who is in critical condition is not Adrian Jr., which led to speculation that Peterson is not related to the boy.
However, Peterson’s father Nelson Peterson confirmed in a phone interview with the Pioneer Press that the injured boy is indeed his grandson.
“All I can say is, we are asking for prayers and for respect for our family as we deal with this tragic situation,” Nelson Peterson said.
It is possible that the victim is a son of Peterson’s that the public was unaware he had.
The turn of events is a disturbing tragedy no matter what Peterson’s relationship is to the boy. To think that a grown man could do something like that to an innocent child is truly sickening.
