Vikings running back Adrian Peterson’s court date in Minnesota has wrapped up after both the NFLPA on behalf of Peterson and NFL made arguments in front of Judge David Doty regarding Peterson’s reinstatement from suspension.
Peterson is arguing that he should be reinstated before the April 15 date set forth by the league as the first date that he can return to active duty because it is a retroactive application of a new policy, that the arbitrator who upheld his suspension was not impartial and that the suspension imposes discipline -- that Peterson must see a league-approved mental health professional, for one -- that is outside the scope of the collective bargaining agreement.
Judge Doty said that he would take the issues under advisement after hearing from both sides. Peterson spoke briefly to reporters after leaving the courthouse.
“I felt like a got a fair hearing, for once. I appreciate all the support from my fans,” Peterson said, via Ben Goessling of ESPN.com.
Peterson also said “of course” when asked if he wanted to play for the Vikings in 2015, although the timing of his reinstatement and his $15.4 million cap number are two things that could factor into whether he actually winds up back in Minnesota.