Adrian Peterson will stay suspended through the remainder of the 2014 season after having his appeal denied by appeals officer Harold Henderson.
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In making his decision, Henderson ruled that Peterson had not shown the league did him wrong by imposing a six-game ban under their personal conduct policy (via ESPN):
"“He was afforded all the protections and rights to which he is entitled, and I find no basis to vacate or reduce the discipline.”"
The NFLPA wasted no time reacting to the decision:
"“The NFLPA expected this outcome, given the hearing officer’s relationship and financial ties to the NFL,” the union’s statement read. “The decision itself ignores the facts, the evidence and the collective bargaining agreement. This decision also represents the NFL’s repeated failure to adhere to due process and confirms its inconsistent treatment of players. Our union is considering immediate legal remedies.”"
It is now expected that Peterson and the union will take the case to federal court.
In a Star Tribune piece the other day, it was reported that the Vikings will attempt to renegotiate Peterson’s contract in the offseason, seeking to slash his salary at least in half.
It’s not believed that the Vikings will try to trade Peterson after the season.
Peterson himself indicated that he has mixed feelings about the prospect of returning to Minnesota.
The Pro Bowl running back has been inactive since Week 1 after being indicted on charges of child abuse in Houston, TX. Peterson plead no contest to the charges and received probation.