New York - Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, who was initially placed on the National Football League's exempt list in September, has been reinstated by commissioner Roger Goodell, the league announced.
Peterson was put on the commissioner's exempt list after he was charged in Texas with hitting his four-year-old son with a tree branch in May.
After reaching a plea agreement in the case, Peterson was suspended by Goodell in November for violating the league's personal conduct policy.
"Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings was advised today that effective tomorrow he is reinstated as an active NFL player and may participate in all scheduled activities with the Vikings," the league said in a statement Thursday.
"In a letter from commissioner Roger Goodell, Peterson was informed that he is expected to fulfil his remaining obligations to the authorities in Minnesota and Texas, as well as the additional commitments Peterson made during his April 7 meeting with the commissioner regarding maintaining an ongoing program of counselling and treatment as recommended by medical advisors."
The league also said it is prepared to suspend Peterson again or toss him from the league should he step out of line.
"Beyond the requirement to comply with his court obligations and plan of counselling, Peterson was reminded that his continuing participation in the NFL depends on his avoidance of any further conduct that violates the Personal Conduct Policy or other NFL policies," it said.
"Any further violation of the Personal Conduct Policy by Peterson would result in additional discipline, which could include suspension without pay or banishment from the NFL."
The Vikings said they "look forward" to Peterson returning to the team.
Under the terms of the original suspension, Peterson was eligible for reinstatement on April 15.
Peterson's agent, Ben Dogra, has said he thinks Peterson should play for another team, but the Vikings want him back and add they have no plans to trade him to another NFL team.
The 2012 NFL MVP will make close to $13 million next season under a contract that will run for three more years.
The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly interested in Peterson. Dallas, which lost running back DeMarco Murray to free agency, recently restructured quarterback Tony Romo's contract to free up roughly $13 million in cap space for this coming season.
The move by the league opens the door for Peterson to take part in the Vikings' workouts, which begin on Monday.
AFP
