Thoughts of the 2009 Vikings came flooding back as I pondered the news that Adrian Peterson is signing with the Saints.

First, as with Brett Favre, you have a star signing with a team that could be considered his longtime former team's rival. The Saints aren't to the Vikings what the Packers are, but 2009 gave New Orleans a certain status in Minnesota.

Second, you have that athlete doing so while hoping to prove he can still play. Peterson, like Favre, is coming off an injury and has plenty of doubters. Elite athletes who have been doubted can turn in amazing performances. Watch out for Peterson in 2017.

Third, you have drama of Saints vs. Vikings on "Monday Night Football" — just like Minnesota vs. Green Bay in 2009.

Peterson needs to have a marvelous 2017 season in which ball security isn't an issue, only to cost the Saints dearly with a fumble at the worst possible time.

Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. mrand@startribune.com