General manager Rick Spielman became the latest Minnesota Vikings executive to declare the team's support for suspended running back Adrian Peterson.
On Wednesday, Spielman told media at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, "We expect Adrian Peterson to be part of our football team."
Spielman's words echoed those of team president Mark Wilf and COO Kevin Warren, who previously indicated Peterson would be welcomed back.
"I think our whole organization is on that same page," Spielman said. "What team wouldn't want an Adrian Peterson talent? He's a unique player that you don't see come around too often, and Adrian's been a key part of our organization. He's made a mistake. He's doing everything, and he's got to follow through and rectify and do the things the NFL is requiring him to do."
Peterson remains suspended in the wake of a child-abuse case. He pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless injury after he used a switch to discipline his 4-year-old son in May 2014.
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He spent almost the entire season on the commissioner's exempt list, receiving his salary but not allowed to play. After Peterson's plea on Nov. 4, commissioner Roger Goodell suspended him through April 15. The NFL Players Association has sued the NFL to end the suspension immediately.
Peterson, who turns 30 next month, is slated to make $12.75 million next season, and Spielman would not discuss whether the Vikings would ask him to take a pay cut.
Since being drafted seventh overall by the Vikings in 2007, Peterson has run for 10,190 yards and 86 touchdowns.
