MINNESOTA VIKINGS BRING BACK ADRIAN PETERSON AS RUNNING BACKS COACH — SIGNS 3-YEAR DEAL WORTH…..SEE MORE….

MINNESOTA VIKINGS BRING BACK ADRIAN PETERSON AS RUNNING BACKS COACH — SIGNS 3-YEAR DEAL WORTH…..SEE MORE….

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — In a stunning and emotional move that has fans buzzing across the NFL, the Minnesota Vikings announced today the return of legendary running back Adrian Peterson—this time as the team’s running backs coach. Peterson, one of the most iconic players in franchise history, has signed a 3-year deal worth $4.5 million, marking his official transition from Hall of Fame-bound player to coach.

The announcement came during a packed press conference at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, where team officials, current players, and media members gathered to welcome one of Minnesota’s all-time greats back into the fold.

“I’m home,” said Peterson with a wide smile. “This is where I became a man, where I created memories that will last a lifetime. And now, I get to come back and help build something special with this next generation of Vikings.”

A Storied Legacy Returns

Adrian Peterson’s impact on the Minnesota Vikings franchise is immeasurable. Drafted in 2007 out of Oklahoma, he quickly became one of the most feared running backs in the NFL, earning NFL MVP honors in 2012 after rushing for 2,097 yards—just eight yards shy of the single-season record.

In 10 seasons with the Vikings (2007–2016), Peterson racked up over 11,000 rushing yards and 97 touchdowns, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and solidifying his place as one of the greatest running backs in league history.

Now, nearly a decade after his final carry in purple and gold, Peterson returns not in shoulder pads, but with a whistle and a playbook.

Why Coaching? Why Now?

Since his retirement, Peterson has hinted at a desire to stay connected to the game, often speaking about mentoring young athletes and sharing the wisdom he’s gathered through his 15-year NFL career.

“I’ve been through every phase of a running back’s life—rookie, Pro Bowler, injured, comeback, veteran, and free agent,” Peterson said. “Now I want to take that experience and pour it into these young guys. I want to help them understand the mental and physical grind of being elite at this level.”

The timing, according to team insiders, was perfect. With a new offensive scheme under recently promoted offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, the Vikings were looking to add veteran leadership and technical expertise to the coaching staff.

“Adrian is not just a legend—he’s a teacher, a motivator, and a competitor,” said head coach Kevin O’Connell. “He knows what it means to carry this franchise on your back. We’re thrilled to have his fire, his experience, and his love for this team back in the building.”

Immediate Impact on the Locker Room

Peterson will work closely with a running back group that includes Ty Chandler, Alexander Mattison, and 2025 rookie draft pick Kendrick Wallace out of Georgia. His presence is already making waves in the locker room.

“To be coached by Adrian Peterson? Man, that’s a dream,” said Wallace. “He’s the guy we all grew up watching. If he tells me something about running the ball, you better believe I’m listening.”

Peterson has also made it clear that he’s not here just for show.

“I’m not coming back to take pictures and sign autographs,” he said. “I’m here to push these guys. To challenge them. To make sure they represent that Viking horn with pride and toughness.”

Fan Reaction and Community Response

Vikings fans, still nostalgic for Peterson’s highlight-reel runs and punishing stiff-arms, erupted on social media when the news broke. The team’s official announcement post on X (formerly Twitter) amassed over 1 million views within the first hour.

“AD is back, baby!” one fan wrote. “The King returns—not to run the ball, but to teach the next ones how it’s done!”

Vikings owner Mark Wilf also praised the hire. “Adrian Peterson means so much to this organization. His presence is inspiring—not just for our players, but for our entire fanbase.”

Looking Ahead

Peterson is expected to be heavily involved in training camp preparations this summer and will accompany the team on the road throughout the 2025 season. Though new to coaching, he’s confident in his ability to make a difference.

“I’ve always led by example. Now I get to lead with my voice and my mind too,” he said. “This is the start of a new journey—and I couldn’t be more excited that it’s happening in Minnesota.”

For Vikings fans, the return of Adrian Peterson is more than a coaching change—it’s a reunion with a hero. One who once carried the team on his back, and now returns to carry its future forward.