Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson says he remains in “severe” pain four days after taking a hit to his left knee. Because of that pain, Peterson convinced his surgeon to move up his surgery date from next Tuesday to this Friday.
The All Pro running back tore both his MCL and his ACL during Saturday’s victory over the Washington Redskins when he was hit by DeJon Gomes.
With no damage to the surrounding cartilage, the Vikings expect an eight- to nine-month recovery period and are hoping Peterson can return for the start of the 2012 season, according to head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman.
“We expect most people to recover from this injury in eight to nine months, and instead of comparing Adrian to any other player at any level that’s had an anterior cruciate ligament – and they happen every day – I would really like Adrian to stand on his own merit because Adrian, I feel, is very unique,” Sugarman said on Monday when explaining the injury. “If there’s anyone who’s going to be able to recover from this injury, it’s Adrian Peterson. You may ask why. It’s because Adrian has a great work ethic.
“Adrian has the desire and the mental toughness to be able to get through the rehab process, which will take months and months, as you know. So, I think if anyone can get better quickly and safely in that time period, it would be Adrian Peterson,” Sugarman added.
