Adrian Peterson practices, three starters don't for the Vikings

Peterson, 31, has not practiced since undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee Sept. 22. He's hoping to play a week from Saturday against the Packers.

December 14, 2016 at 7:32PM
Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer spoke with running back Adrian Peterson (28) during the afternoon practice on Tuesday.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer spoke with running back Adrian Peterson (28) during the afternoon practice on Tuesday. (Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Adrian Peterson rejoined his teammates with a brace on his surgically-repaired right knee during Wednesday's practice.

Peterson, 31, practiced for the first time since undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee Sept. 22. Peterson is targeting a return to game action on Dec. 24 in Green Bay, he said earlier this week during a radio interview.

Peterson told Twin Cities media last week that he wouldn't return "for obvious reasons" if the Vikings (7-6) were eliminated from playoff contention. They kick off against the Colts on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Three other starters were held out of practice for the Vikings between cornerback Trae Waynes (concussion), guard Brandon Fusco (concussion) and safety Harrison Smith (ankle).

Waynes and Fusco suffered brain injuries during the Vikings' 25-16 win in Jacksonville on Sunday.

Center Joe Berger (concussion) was spotted warming up with his teammates during the portion of practice open to the media.

We'll update with official injury reports this afternoon.

about the writer

about the writer

Andrew Krammer

Reporter

Andrew Krammer covers the Vikings for the Minnesota Star Tribune, entering his sixth NFL season. From the Metrodome to U.S. Bank Stadium, he's reported on everything from Case Keenum's Minneapolis Miracle, the offensive line's kangaroo court to Adrian Peterson's suspension.

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