Adrian Peterson Open To Settlement If Suspension Doesn’t Roll Over Into 2015

Jason Cole, citing a source close to Adrian Peterson, reports that the Vikings running back would be interested in a settlement agreement with the NFL regarding his suspension.

Peterson is, of course, in the process of appealing the league’s decision to suspend him for the remainder of the 2014 season. However, ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported on Sunday that if Peterson’s six-game suspension stands, under standard protocol, the remaining three games would roll over into 2015 unless a settlement is reached.

According to Cole, the “No. 1 most essential issue” in a potential settlement for Peterson comes to whether or not he’ll be allowed to play at the start of the 2015 regular season.

Cole believes the two sides will be able to avoid any further issues including a potential lawsuit if they can agree on this one aspect.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing a source with knowledge of the situation, reported over the weekend that a settlement between the NFL and Peterson is still a possibility.

Peterson’s hearing ended on Thursday and Harold Henderson said that a ruling could come “as soon as practicable.” The expectation is that Henderson will make a decision in the next week.

Henderson has reportedly urged both parties to discuss a settlement in the time being, but Tom Pelissero of USA TODAY reported Friday night that the NFL had yet to extend Peterson’s camp a formal offer.

Henderson is expected to monitor any settlement talks before handing down a ruling.

We’ll have more updates as the news is available.