The Facts: GM Rick Spielman continues to state that he wants Adrian Peterson back in 2015. But let's say, for the sake of argument, that a team blows him out of the water with a trade offer. Where will the Vikes turn then in the backfield? They could select one in a deep draft. First, though, Jerick McKinnon would like a shot at the gig. "If A.P. comes back, there's no doubt he's going to be the starter," McKinnon said. "But it's not going to change my mind-set or how I approach things or how I work. Whatever they do, my mind-set is to come in and be that guy next year."
Diehards Line:
The 22-year-old showed flashes of promise with a quick burst during his rookie campaign. However, his season ended prior to Week 13 and he was place on the injured reserve list with a back injury. McKinnon finished with 538 yards on 113 carries, for a 4.8 yards per tote average. The running back underwent surgery in December and said he's fully recovered. "There's no doubt in my mind I can last the season," McKinnon said. "If that's something I have to prove, that's not a big deal for me. I'll prove it this year. I'm just really excited to get back out there with my teammates and coaches and show how far I've come since surgery. ..." Of course, if Peterson remains in Minnesota, we aren't going to see much of McKinnon. If Peterson moves on? McKinnon will be in the mix along with Matt Asiata.