Adrian Peterson Sent Inspirational Text to Vikings Before Falcons Game

Adrian Peterson may be gone from the Vikings but he proved this weekend he hasn’t forgotten about them.

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Several Vikings players confirm that, before Sunday’s game against the Falcons, coach Mike Zimmer conveyed an “inspirational speech” Peterson had sent to his teammates in the form of a text message.

Matt Asiata talked about the effect of Peterson’s electronically-communicated pep talk (via 1500ESPN.com):

"“We felt him in spirit,” Asiata said. “He gave us a text, a motivational speech in a text, and we came out punching.”"

Peterson’s words seemed to touch Teddy Bridgewater, who would go on to pass for over 300 yards in winning his first game as a starter:

"“One thing that I took away from that message was: ‘play each down like it’s your last because you never know when it’s going to be your last opportunity,'” Bridgewater said. “Today I think the guys got that message pretty well. We went out, we fought today and it was just a great overall team effort.”"

Peterson remains on the little-used Exempt list while dealing with a charge of reckless or negligent injury to a child brought against him after an incident where he allegedly whipped his 4-year-old son with a switch.

Adrian may be an object of intense hatred in some circles but his teammates clearly still think of him as a positive presence.