If you're an avid fantasy football player, you're probably wondering what to make of Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. For years, Peterson has been a consensus No. 1 overall pick as he was unanimously regarded as the best running back in the NFL. However, after missing all but one game last year due to suspension and turning 30-years-old this offseason, fantasy owners aren't entirely sure what to make of the former MVP.
There's no doubt that Peterson has defied expectations before. He returned from a torn ACL to have a historic 2012 campaign. But ESPN NFL Insider KC Joyner thinks there are enough additional question marks this year to avoid taking Peterson first overall in fantasy drafts (his colleague Matthew Berry disagrees).
In 2010, 2011 and 2013, Peterson ranked third in running back fantasy points (607) and sixth in running back fantasy points in point per reception leagues (690).
"Part of why he did not score more points is that Peterson missed seven games during those seasons (a factor that brings to mind injury concerns), but it should be noted that he also ranked fourth among running backs in fantasy points per game (14.8) and fifth in running back PPR fantasy points per game (16.8)," Joyner wrote.
"In addition to the aforementioned durability concern, Peterson also has a career carry and reception volume that has added nearly two season worth of extra wear and tear to his 30-year old frame, and a backup (Jerick McKinnon) who can produce upper-tier numbers on rush plays with good blocking.
"Put it all together, and it means that the chances Peterson returns to his 2012 form - the only level that would justify his current first overall [average draft position] ranking - are fairly low."
It's true that Peterson is unlikely to approach his 2012 numbers, but the same can be said for every single running back in the league. Aside from last year, Peterson has scored double digit touchdowns in every single season of his career. The Minnesota offense is poised to take a leap forward with another year of development from QB Teddy Bridgewater, the addition of WR Mike Wallace and improved health from TE Kyle Rudolph. That should only benefit Peterson.
Think about this: McKinnon and Matt Asiata combined for more than 1,100 rushing yards with nine touchdowns and 71 receptions for 447 yards. Peterson can easily approach that stat line.
He may not be worthy of the No. 1 overall pick, but he is still a high-end fantasy running back for anyone picking in the top five.
