Adrian Peterson To Have Surgery, Could Miss Rest Of Season

All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson has elected to have surgery on his torn meniscus, as first reported by ESPN's Josina Anderson. Can the Minnesota Vikings RB possibly return this season?

Peterson told Anderson he has a bucket handle tear. Rather than attempt non-surgical rehab and a possible return next month, Peterson is electing to have surgery to repair the tear, a safer decision when it comes to his long-term health.

Surgery to repair a bucket handle tear on the meniscus generally requires between three and four months of recovery time, making a return this season a reach.

Peterson is optimistic for a potential return in the postseason, if the Vikings make it there.

Minnesota, winners of the NFC North in 2015, are 2-0. However, they've been dealt a bad hand in the injury department. Their Pro Bowl quarterback Teddy Bridgewater suffered a severe knee injury in training camp, ending his 2016 season before it could begin.

Peterson, 31, led the NFL in rushing a season ago.