Minnesota Vikings: The Latest Injury Update for RB Adrian Peterson

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson tore his MCL, ACL and meniscus in Week 16 and underwent surgery on December 30.

Since that time, his recovery seems to be right on schedule, but there are still significant doubts that he will be anywhere near close to returning to the field in time for the start of the 2012 regular season.

Peterson himself is not one of these people, however. Speaking to KFAN 100.3 FM this morning, Peterson said that his physical therapy in Houston, Texas is going well. He is starting to get a bit of muscle tone and overall strength back in the leg and hopes to begin running on February 28.

He acknowledged that he needs to take things slowly in order to not cause further damage, but the fact that he's almost entirely pain- and swelling-free is a good sign that he can start testing the knee in a few weeks.

Generally, when recovering from injuries like the ones Peterson sustained, the timetable is between eight and 12 months. Peterson is hoping to have a shorter recovery than expected, and considering his history, work ethic and almost superhuman physical condition, it isn't out of the question.

The next few months are crucial for Peterson. If his recovery continues without setbacks, his chances to take the field at the beginning of the season increase. However, it is still too early to say if the Vikings will have their star running back in time for Week 1.

If his rehab continues as planned, however, it's looking less and less likely the team will need to put him on the PUP list to start the season. This means that even if Peterson cannot play in the first game or two, he could easily be ready by October.

This is good news for a Vikings squad that has a lot of work to do in the coming months to improve on both offense and defense. Peterson making good progress means one less thing to worry about in an offseason in which the team has a seemingly endless to-do list.

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