When Adrian Peterson limped to the locker room on Sunday, Minnesota Vikings faithful held its collective breath. You may draw more air, Vikings fans.
According to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, Peterson will be ready for Week 16’s prime-time matchup with the New York Giants.
Sources on Vikings RB Adrian Peterson Monday afternoon: "He'll be ready to go on Sunday!” #Vikings #Giants
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) December 21, 2015
Peterson sprained his left ankle during Minnesota’s 38-17 victory over the Chicago Bears, leaving the field during the second quarter but logging six carries after halftime.
ESPN’s Ben Goessling noted Peterson said while he couldn’t pinpoint the severity of the injury, “the bone and everything is OK.” Combine that with his return, and the Vikings can breathe a sigh of relief.
Now, Minnesota need not push its superstar runner back onto the field. The team is a single victory or Atlanta Falcons loss away from securing a playoff berth. Although the NFC North crown is within reach, the Vikings would foolishly be chasing a banner if Peterson could play yet truly needs to rest..
Barring an unforeseen meltdown, Minnesota will battle either the Green Bay Packers or Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the postseason. Peterson’s health for the playoffs should trump a division-title chase.
But if Peterson, who leads the league with 1,314 rushing yards and has scored nine touchdowns, is healthy for the clash with the Giants on Sunday Night Football, there’s no reason to hold the physical back out of a potential postseason-clinching game.