Former NFL MVP Adrian Peterson Arrested on Suspicion of Drunk Driving After Vikings Draft Event
Former NFL running back and league MVP Adrian Peterson was arrested early Friday morning in Minneapolis on suspicion of driving while under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred just hours after Peterson attended the Minnesota Vikings’ NFL Draft party, held Thursday night at U.S. Bank Stadium.
According to Minnesota State Patrol Lieutenant Mike Lee, Peterson was observed driving an Audi Q5 at a speed of 83 miles per hour in a 55 mph zone. Following a traffic stop, authorities administered a blood alcohol content (BAC) test, which registered at 0.14%—well above Minnesota’s legal limit of 0.08%.
Peterson, who is now 40 years old, was taken to Hennepin County Jail, where he was booked at approximately 5:16 a.m. on a charge of fourth-degree driving while impaired, which is classified as a misdemeanor. After posting a $4,000 bond, he was released at around 7:30 a.m. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 9 in Minneapolis.
The arrest came shortly after Peterson participated in a celebratory gathering hosted by the Vikings for the 2024 NFL Draft. The team reportedly provided transportation for former players, including a shuttle service to and from the stadium. According to The Minnesota Star Tribune, Peterson utilized the team-arranged shuttle and left the event at 9 p.m.
Peterson, who spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Minnesota Vikings, is widely considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Drafted in 2007, he played 10 seasons with the team and holds several franchise records, including most rushing yards (11,747), most rushing touchdowns (97), and most rushing attempts (2,418). He made an immediate impact by winning the 2007 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and later earned NFL MVP and AP Offensive Player of the Year honors in 2012.
During his time in the league, Peterson was selected to seven Pro Bowls and was named to the All-Pro First Team four times. He also made three Second Team All-Pro appearances, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dominant and consistent players at his position.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Peterson continued his NFL journey with a number of teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals, Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans, and Seattle Seahawks. He last played in the league during the 2021 season. Over the course of his 15-year career, Peterson accumulated impressive stats, ranking fourth all-time in rushing touchdowns (120), fifth in rushing yards (14,918), and sixth in total rushing attempts (3,230).
This recent incident marks a serious turn for the retired athlete, who has maintained a high profile since stepping away from the game. While Peterson has not publicly commented on the arrest, his court appearance in early May may shed more light on the situation. The case is likely to draw significant attention due to Peterson’s legacy in the NFL and his connection to the Minnesota Vikings.
Leave a Reply