Is DeMarco Murray the NFL's Next Adrian Peterson?

DeMarco Murray is not the NFL's next Adrian Peterson, despite the similarities. Adrian Peterson is one of the best running backs in the NFL. He has proven his worth over an extended period, consistently producing high rushing totals.

Peterson is the catalyst for any successes the Minnesota Vikings hope to find. He is their cowbell and top playmaker. Without Peterson, the Minnesota franchise would be in real rough shape. No matter how bad this season gets, they can always point to Adrian Peterson. He provides them with hope for the future.

Murray is not the most important player on the Dallas Cowboys offense. He hasn't even solidified himself as the starting running back. Murray could very easily be a one-week wonder, and never duplicate last week's performance.

There are more than a few similarities between Peterson and Murray. Both players played at Oklahoma University, making a ton of spectacular plays. They were both a major part of their college offenses, and even Heisman hopefuls.

Peterson and Murray have very similar running styles, as they both fail to run with a low pad level. Their up and down running style could result in shorter careers, as they receive punishing hits.

Those are the only similarities between Peterson and Murray. Outside of those few points, they are very different players. During his career at Oklahoma, Murray was never the lone feature running back. He always had to split carries with another running back. Peterson was the featured back, expected to carry the load.

Murray is an excellent pass catcher out of the backfield, while Peterson is rarely asked to make plays in the passing game. In fact, Peterson is often subbed out of the game in passing situations. Murray has a lot of versatility, as he is capable of lining up in the slot and running routes.

While Murray is the better receiver, he doesn't have the vision or rushing ability of Peterson. Murray cannot match Peterson's elusiveness, thus limiting his overall upside.

Peterson and Murray are different players who will have different looking careers. Both have the potential to be very successful, but do it in different ways.