Major Controversies Surrounding Adrian Peterson: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Adrian Peterson—discover key moments of controversy.

Adrian Peterson is a former NFL running back, widely regarded as one of the greatest in history. He played college football at Oklahoma, setting a freshman rushing record and becoming the first freshman to finish as a Heisman Trophy runner-up. Peterson ended his college career as Oklahoma's third all-time leading rusher before embarking on a successful 15-season NFL career.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

September 12, 2014: Indictment on Child Abuse Charges

On September 12, 2014, Adrian Peterson was indicted on child abuse charges and subsequently deactivated for Minnesota's Week 2 game.

November 4, 2014: Peterson Pleads No Contest to Misdemeanor Assault Charge

On November 4, 2014, Adrian Peterson pleaded no contest to the misdemeanor charge of recklessly assaulting his son. He avoided jail time by reaching a plea agreement, was put on probation, fined $4,000, and ordered to do 80 hours of community service.

November 18, 2014: Peterson's 2014 Season Ends After Arbitrator Ruling

On November 18, 2014, arbitrator Shyam Das ruled in favor of the NFL, allowing the league to keep Adrian Peterson on the commissioner's exempt list. This decision effectively ended any possibility of Peterson playing for the Minnesota Vikings again during the 2014 season.

2014: Indictment and Suspension

In 2014, Adrian Peterson was indicted in Texas on charges of reckless or negligent injury to a child and was suspended for the rest of the season.

February 6, 2015: Federal Court Appeal Hearing

Following his suspension in 2014, Adrian Peterson was scheduled for a federal court appeal hearing on February 6, 2015.

2018: Peterson Admits to Using Belt for Discipline

In 2018, Adrian Peterson admitted that he was still using a belt to discipline his son.

February 13, 2022: Peterson Arrested for Domestic Violence

On February 13, 2022, Adrian Peterson was arrested by the Los Angeles Airport Police for a domestic violence incident with his wife, Ashley, on a flight to Houston, Texas. He was later released on bond, and the charges were eventually dropped.

April 25, 2025: Peterson Arrested for DWI

On April 25, 2025, Adrian Peterson was arrested for a fourth-degree driving while intoxicated charge after being caught speeding and allegedly having a blood-alcohol content of .14. He had been at the Minnesota Vikings draft party.