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Adrian Peterson reinstated from injured reserve for Vikings

FILE - In this Sept. 18, 2016, file photo, Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson carries the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, in Minneapolis. Peterson is returning to practice this week for the Vikings for the first time since tearing the meniscus in his right knee in September. Coach Mike Zimmer says he expects Peterson to practice all week. He is not sure if his star running back will be available to play the Indianapolis Colts this weekend. (AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King, File) FILE - In this Sept. 18, 2016, file photo, Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson carries the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, in Minneapolis. Peterson is returning to practice this week for the Vikings for the first time since tearing the meniscus in his right knee in September. Coach Mike Zimmer says he expects Peterson to practice all week. He is not sure if his star running back will be available to play the Indianapolis Colts this weekend. (AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King, File)

By Associated Press December 17, 2016 1 min read

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The Minnesota Vikings have reinstated running back Adrian Peterson from injured reserve, clearing the way for him to return Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts.

The Vikings announced the roster move Saturday. Peterson said in a radio interview Friday that he plans to return after sitting out the previous 11 games with a torn right meniscus. He has not played since Week 2 against Green Bay.

The Vikings (7-6) are playing under the assumption they need to win their final three games to have a shot at the playoffs, and Peterson’s return should help their cause.

Minnesota cut defensive tackle Toby Johnson to make room on the roster for Peterson.

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