The Vikings game plan took an unexpected turn Friday, two days before the team's home opener against the Patriots at TCF Bank Stadium.
Running back Adrian Peterson was deactivated after a warrant was issued for his arrest. He has been indicted on a charge of reckless or negligent injury to a child in North Montgomery County, Texas.
The news came long after the team's availability to the media. Saturday's walkthrough is also closed to the press.
The league did not respond to a request for a statement. Peterson's deactivation is effective for Sunday's game, and it's likely the league or the team will take action Monday.
Peterson, 29, flew to Houston on Friday night, Fox9 reported, and his attorney said arrangements were being made for him to report to police there.
Peterson was the NFL's MVP in 2012, when he rushed for a near-record 2,097 yards. The season was more amazing considering he was only a few months removed from major knee surgery.
He missed only nine games because of injury in his first seven seasons.
The six-time Pro Bowler did not play in the preseason to spare him from possible injury. Matt Asiata was the starting running back and is expected to start in Peterson's absence Sunday, with rookie Jerick McKinnon serving as the backup.