MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Matt Asiata will start in Adrian Peterson’s place for Minnesota, with the star running back inactive for the Vikings against New England.
The Vikings, as promised, shelved Peterson on Sunday against the Patriots following his indictment on a charge of child abuse in Texas. Also inactive: quarterback Christian Ponder, linebackers Michael Mauti and Brandon Watts, offensive lineman David Yankey, wide receiver Rodney Smith and defensive end Scott Crichton.
Peterson is missing for a non-injury reason for the first time in his NFL career. He sat out a total of nine games over the previous seven years. The league has initiated a review under its personal conduct policy, and with the NFL recently increasing penalties for players involved with cases of domestic violence, Peterson could be facing a suspension.
The indictment came down Friday in Montgomery County outside of Houston, and Peterson was booked and released on bond early Saturday before returning to Minnesota.
For the Patriots, cornerback Alfonzo Dennard is a surprise scratch. He had offseason shoulder surgery but played last week and was not listed on the injury report.
Linebacker Jamie Collins (thigh) and center Ryan Wendell (knee) are also out of the starting lineup. Defensive end Zach Moore, wide receiver Kenbrell Thompkins, running back James White and defensive end Michael Buchanan are the other inactives.
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