Bradford calls Peterson's return 'a definite lift to our guys'

Sam Bradford admitted there will be challenges to incorporating Adrian Peterson back into a Vikings offense that has changed rather dramatically since Peterson last played in Week 2.

But …

"I think any chance you get to add Adrian Peterson to your lineup, I think it's a positive," Bradford said. "I think we'll definitely take him back in the lineup regardless if it adds any challenges or not."

Peterson had surgery on Sept. 22 to repair a torn meniscus. He was placed on injured reserve, but was designated for return today. He will be a full participant in practice this week, coach Mike Zimmer said.

Peterson told Dash Radio that he's targeting next week's game at Lambeau Field as his return date. When asked this morning if there's a chance Peterson could play this week against the Colts, Zimmer said, "I don't know. We'll see."

Asked if he got an emotional lift by Peterson returning to practice today, Zimmer said, "Not right now. I haven't seen anything."

Bradford, however, said the players definitely got an emotional lift when their former league MVP and Hall of Fame-bound running back appeared at this morning's walk-through.

"Obviously, it was great to see him out here in the walk-through today," Bradford said. "I just think he's one of those guys. He's been a leader on this team. Obviously, he's one of the best players in this league, and he has been for quite some time. I think just having him back out at practice and in the huddle is a definite lift to our guys."

Zimmer: Smith could return this week

In other news, Zimmer said free safety Harrison Smith, who missed the Jaguars game because of an ankle injury, could return this week.

"There's a possibility, even though the report [saying he could be out for the season] was erroneous from before," Zimmer said. "He's doing good."