Adrian Peterson invited to attend Brett Favre's Hall of Fame induction
Adrian Peterson has the obligation of his ongoing Pro Football Hall of Fame career, otherwise he’d probably be attending Brett Favre’s induction this weekend.
Peterson, who played two seasons with Favre, said he received an invitation from the gunslinger’s camp to be part of the celebration taking place in Canton on Saturday. The Vikings are holding their annual scrimmage of training camp that night at Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato.
“That was a no-brainer,” Peterson said of Favre’s first-ballot induction. “I’m sure it’s going to be a great day for him and his family. I wish him all the best. I can always say that I played with him. That right there is satisfying to me.”
On Favre’s arm, Peterson’s legs and a strong defense, the Vikings nearly made the franchise’s fifth Super Bowl appearance during a standout 2009 season that fell short in the NFC Championship game. It was one of Favre’s best statistical campaigns as he finished with 4,202 passing yards, 33 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. (The year was great enough to land Favre’s Vikings jersey in his Canton locker alongside a Packers uniform.)
Peterson had a front-row seat both on and off the field.
“To have a locker right next to him, that was pretty special,” Peterson said. “I don’t ask too many guys for autographs, but I definitely asked him for a couple.”
Peterson credited his on-field passion to matching that of Favre, known for his jovial, risk-taking and butt-slapping style. He was 40 years old for much of that magical 2009 season, and Peterson, in just his third NFL season, still recalls hearing a pass whistle past his helmet.
“That’s the only time I heard that happen,” Peterson said. “To still be able to the throw the ball with that much power was incredible to me.”