The Minnesota Vikings have been hopeful that running back Adrian Peterson would be able to return for the season opener on Sunday since he went down with dual ACL and MCL injuries a season ago. They've also been saying that they plan to be very cautious regarding the injury, insisting that they won't rush him back. The reality has always been that Peterson will be limited if he does in fact play, and that's now been confirmed.
Jon Krawczynski of the Associated Press reported via Twitter that Leslie Frazier said Peterson would get "limited exposure" if he played on Sunday, and that the team would gradually work him back. Peterson is set to take some full contact in practice this week, which, given the nature of his injury, might be the most the Vikings want to subject him to.
Running backs generally don't need to practice and drill as much as other players do. It would be surprising if Peterson takes more than a few carries, if he even takes any. The team might just want to bring him in on a couple snaps as a diversion to really get his feet wet. By all accounts, it sounds like he'll be ready for a full workload by Week 2, at least.
For more Vikings news and analysis, check out Daily Norseman or check out SB Nation Minnesota. Also make sure to check out SB Nation's NFL hub for more football news.