All is not well between the Minnesota Vikings and running back Adrian Peterson. Negotiations have been contentious at best, and it appears as if Peterson still wants out. However, the Vikings have stated that they will not release the former MVP from the remaining three years of his contract, prompting Peterson's agent to turn down a meeting with the Vikings. A trade is becoming the most likely outcome in this drawn out drama.
Which teams could emerge as possible landing spots? Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk said the Arizona Cardinals are the front runner at the moment.
"Despite Peter King's report that the Cardinals won't absorb Peterson's current contract," Florio wrote, "the presence of comments supporting the move from Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald - on the team's official website - make it clear that the Cardinals remain in play, if they can work out compensation packages with the player and the team that holds his rights."
Andre Ellington is atop Arizona's RB depth chart at the moment, but the 5-foot-9, 199-pound rusher proved last season that he is best suited for a complimentary role. He excelled in this capacity in his rookie year and would be a great change-of-pace from the powerful Peterson.
Another team that is being mentioned is the Oakland Raiders, who have the necessary cap space to take in Peterson's massive deal.
"The Raiders could have a surplus of cap room while others are struggling to stay under the cap," ESPN Raiders reporter Bill Williamson wrote. "That could be an advantage. It also could help them in the trade market if a team decides to unload a player. If the Vikings end up trading running back Adrian Peterson, the Raiders (whose offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave worked with Peterson in Minnesota) could emerge as a possibility."
