Peterson’s Is A Saint
It was announced today that Adrian Peterson has been signed by the New Orleans Saints. This may seem like a very surprising fit for a team that is primarily a pass first offense. In addition, what does this mean for Mark Ingram, who has been their lead back since being drafted in 2013?
Adrian Peterson confirms the deal finalized yesterday. He'll be a member of the #Saints https://t.co/7v8fmjpTIH
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 25, 2017
Many critics believe that Adrian Peterson should be relegated to a complimentary role in a team’s backfield. He has been plagued with severe injuries over the last few years. Not to mention he is on the wrong side of 30 years old. Caveat emptor? In the words of the great Lee Corso, “Not so fast my friends.”
Adrian Peterson may have a Hall of Fame career, but there is still a lot for him to prove. Judging by the video below, he is out to prove age is merely a number. His athleticism and speed are superhuman for a guy who suffered the type of knee injuries he has. This is indicative of his work ethic.
Guess who's the only one older than 24! ? ….. A sip of my Got dang juice! Talking about lost a step( Haters do whatcha do best ?? pic.twitter.com/nVxtfposrU
— Adrian Peterson (@AdrianPeterson) March 31, 2017
Ingram Stock Is Falling
With the addition of Adrian Peterson, the big question is Ingram’s role. Does his value within the Saints offense decrease? I don’t think Peterson’s presence really affects the utilization and productivity of Ingram. If you look, Matthew Berry points out the productivity of the Saints backfield in 2016 other than Ingram. Stands to reason that Peterson has a lot of opportunity along with Ingram. The real impact, in regards to fantasy football may come with Brees. It appears the Saints are following suit and potentially going with the two back system. Peterson is not much of the catching back, which could cut down red zone touchdown passes for Brees in 2017.
Non-Ingram Saint RB/FB were responsible for 57.4% of backfield touches (& 64.7% of backfield TD) last yr. #AdrianPeterson
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) April 25, 2017
Non-Mark Ingram RB/FB for NO last yr totaled 247 touches for 1,201 total yards, 14 TD, 173 fantasy points (Ingram 181) #AdrianPeterson
— Matthew Berry (@MatthewBerryTMR) April 25, 2017
In short, I’m personally excited to see what Adrian Peterson has left in the tank. I’m just as excited to see what the high powered Saints offense can do with another threat. If you are wondering where I am putting Adrian Peterson on my Top 250 Cheatsheet for 2017, I will have this updated later today.
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