Peterson has been placed under suspension from team related activity in a revision of the Vikings' decision.
This is the second reversal of the Vikings decision in regards to allowing Adrian Peterson to participate in NFL games. The first decision by the Vikings was to deactivate Peterson, and then on Monday they announced his reactivation, only to announce his deactivation today.
The reactivation on Monday was met with much criticism. Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton said in a statement on Tuesday, “It is an awful situation. Yes, Mr. Peterson is entitled to due process and should be 'innocent until proven guilty.' However, he is a public figure; and his actions, as described, are a public embarrassment to the Vikings organization and the State of Minnesota.”
Nike, a huge sponsor of the NFL, announced its decision to suspend its contract with Adrian Peterson on Tuesday, according to ESPN. “Nike in no way condones child abuse or domestic violence of any kind and has shared our concerns with the NFL,” said Nike spokesperson KeJuan Wilkins.
Vikings’ owner Mark Wilf stated, “While we were trying to make a balanced decision yesterday, after further reflection we have concluded that this resolution is best for the Vikings and for Adrian,” in a press conference earlier today.
Peterson allegedly whipped a boy, whose relationship to Peterson is unknown, and is charged with reckless and neglectful injury to a child. He is scheduled for a trial October 8, 2014; until the legal process is complete, Adrian Peterson will not be allowed to participate in any team related activity.
“We will support Adrian during this legal and personal process, but we firmly believe and realize this is the right decision. We hope that all of our fans can respect the process that we have gone through to reach this final decision,” said Mark Wilf.
Peterson’s allegations are bringing much attention to the NFL and its manner of addressing the accusations. Fellow NFL athlete Ray Rice was recently cut from the Baltimore Ravens for a video revealing domestic abuse. Sponsors as well as fans are cautiously watching the NFL as it handles these situations.
