Former Minnesota Vikings star running back Adrian Peterson was arrested and charged with fourth degree driving while impaired in the early morning hours of April 25 after attending the Vikings’ draft party on April 24. Peterson spent the 2017 season with the Arizona Cardinals.
Initially reported by the Minnesota Star Tribune, authorities say a state trooper spotted Peterson driving at an excessive rate of speed, 83 miles per hour, in a 55-mph zone at about 3:20 a.m. The trooper pulled him over, and a breathalyzer measured his blood alcohol content at 0.14%, nearly twice the legal limit.
The 40-year-old former NFL MVP in 2012, who was the last running back to receive that award, attended the Vikings’ draft party at U.S. Bank Stadium and did an interview with the team’s local radio station. According to the report, the Vikings provided former players with transportation to and from the event, and Peterson left the stadium in the team-issued shuttle at 9 p.m.
Embed from Getty ImagesPeterson was booked on a misdemeanor count of fourth degree driving while impaired and was released at 7:31 a.m. CT after he posted a $4,000 bond. Police described him as cooperative.
Peterson has had legal trouble in the past and has been involved in various incidents throughout his career and into retirement, including domestic violence, child abuse and financial issues. In 2014, Peterson served a one-year suspension after he was charged with child abuse.
The former No. 7 overall pick in the 2007 draft out of the University of Oklahoma, remained with the Vikings for a decade and departed after the 2017 season. He then moved around as a journeyman, spending time with the New Orleans Saints, Cardinals, Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans and Seattle Seahawks. He last played in 2021.
Peterson’s career rushing total of 14,918 yards ranks fifth in NFL history.
