Latavius Murray will be changing jersey numbers in 2017 out of respect for the man he insists he is not trying to replace, Adrian Peterson.
Murray, who signed a three-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings this week, wrote on Instagram Thursday that he has “too much respect” for Peterson to even consider wearing No. 28 with his new team.
“There wasn’t a thought in my mind to try and wear or ask for the #28,” Murray wrote. “I have too much respect for AP and so much respect for what he’s done and what he means to this organization.
“Many people don’t know, but I wore the #28 as a kid because of Fred Taylor who played for the Jaguars at the time. When AP came onto the scene and Fred retired, he was my reason for keeping #28.”
Murray also assured Vikings fans he is not trying to take the place of one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
“I want to say to Vikings fans: I’m not here to replace #28, he’s irreplaceable,” he wrote. “I’m not here to be #28, there’s no one like him. I ask that you accept me for the player I am and know that I’m here to give you all I got and to win.”
Murray, 27, rushed for 788 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. His abusive running style could remind fans in Minnesota of Peterson at times, but he’s nowhere near the caliber of player A.P. was in his prime.
Peterson remains a free agent, and there are only a select few teams who make sense for him.
