Running backs in the NFL usually don’t make it past their 30s. A demanding position that entails breaking tackles and dodging past defensive players, the role is such that players simply can’t deliver the numbers they did early on in their careers.
Taking a toll on their bodies, running backs are perhaps the most expendable players on the field. But there are of course exceptions. Though rare and few, some running backs have left a mark on the league playing through their 30s.
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One such example is running back Adrian Peterson. Making his NFL debut with the Minnesota Vikings in 2007, Peterson developed into a star by picking up four All-Pro call ups during his time there.
With close to 15,000 rushing yards to his name, Peterson is a sure-shot future Hall of Famer. Now 36, if he decides to call it quits, he would walk away as one of the greatest running backs to have graced the NFL.
But there is one thing that Peterson will end up giving up on if he does decide to retire. His dreams of winning a Super Bowl ring. Despite his personal success on the field, Peterson failed to pick up a ring over the years.
And it’s that dream of his that is pegging on the 36-year-old to return for his 15th season in the league.
Adrian Peterson not giving up just yet
Talking to Sports Talk 970, Peterson was asked about the role he sees himself in 2021. Currently, a free agent, the running back does indeed wish to return for next season. And when he gets the right call, he’d be ready to pounce on it.
“The training is going well and I’m going to control the things that I can control right now. When that time comes, somebody will give me a call,” Peterson said.
36 and still feeling young, Peterson truly is a freak of nature. And it’s no doubt that any NFL fan would be delighted to see the running back retire with a Super Bowl ring to his name.
“That’s all I’m asking for. My body feels good. I came out healthy from last season. My body feels strong. I still feel young. I still feel good. I’m ready to play ball.”
Currently, Peterson is just 450 yards shy of overtaking Barry Sanders as the NFL’s fourth all-time leading rusher. And given another season, one can expect Peterson to break it in no time.
