Minnesota Vikings

Adrian Peterson will reportedly meet with the Patriots on his 1st free-agent visit

Published Apr. 4, 2017 8:43 p.m. ET

Nunzio Ingrassia

Adrian Peterson will begin visiting teams Monday and the first one on his list is the defending champion New England Patriots, ESPN reported Sunday.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/848652153149411329

Peterson was released by the Vikings last month, ending his illustrious 10-year run with the organization. The 32-year-old running back missed the final 13 games of last season after tearing his meniscus in his right knee last September against the Packers.

The three-time rushing champ could be an intriguing option if LeGarrette Blount, who had a league-leading 18 rushing touchdowns last season, opts to leave in free agency. Blount has expressed a desire to remain with the defending champs.

The Patriots have made a number of splashy moves this offseason, including signing cornerback Stephon Gilmore and trading for wideout Brandin Cooks. But landing Peterson would definitely be the biggest head-turner of them all.

Peterson had a bounce-back year in 2015 a season after being suspended the final 15 games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Peterson led the NFL in rushing yards, attempts and touchdowns, averaging a league-best 92.8 yards on the ground per game.

The seven-time Pro Bowl running back has rushed for 11,747 yards and 97 touchdowns.