The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... The Peterson era in Minnesota may be over, and it has more to do with his contract than his legal issues.
Diehards Line:So noted Star-Tribune staffer Matt Vensel, who reminded readers that HC Mike Zimmer and GM Rick Spielman have said they would like to have Peterson back in 2015. But Peterson, who turns 30 in a few months, will carry a cap hit of $15.4 million, a league-high for running backs. And in an ESPN interview he scoffed at the suggestion that he take a pay cut to remain with the Vikings. If Peterson does not return, the Vikings will be looking for help at the position. As Vensel went on to note, Jerick McKinnon showed promise and the Vikings like Matt Asiata because he is a selfless player who can do a bunch of things for them. But as we saw in 2014, losing Peterson would leave a sizable void. If the Vikings need to replace Peterson, look for them to do it in the draft.