Adrian Peterson could be back in action for the Minnesota Vikings by mid- to late-December, ESPN.com reports.
Peterson tore a meniscus in his right knee in the Vikings’ game against the Packers on Sept. 18 and had surgery Sept. 22. He has made solid progress since then and may start running as early as this week, according to the report.
With a record of 6-4, the Vikings are tied with the Detroit Lions for first place in the NFC North, so they figure to be in the thick of the playoff race through the end of the regular season. Peterson’s return would be a welcome boost for Minnesota’s often stagnant offense.
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The Vikes’ running game has been particularly anemic. With Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata carrying most of the load, Minnesota ranks last in the NFL in both yards per carry (2.7) and rushing yards per game (70.0).
Minnesota’s Dec. 18 (Week 15) home game against the Colts and its Dec. 24 (Week 16) visit to Green Bay are two possibilities for Peterson’s first game back.