Early Life and Education of Adrian Peterson: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Adrian Peterson. A timeline of key moments.

Adrian Peterson, a former NFL running back, is considered one of the greatest in football history. He played college football at Oklahoma, setting a freshman rushing record and becoming the first freshman runner-up for the Heisman Trophy. He ended his college career as the Sooners' third all-time leading rusher before a long and successful NFL career.

Sections (6)

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

March 21, 1985: Adrian Peterson Born

On March 21, 1985, Adrian Lewis Peterson was born. He would become a professional football running back in the NFL.

Others born on this day/year

2004: Debate Over NFL Age Limit

Following Maurice Clarett's lawsuit against the NFL over its age limit in 2004, there was discussion about whether a high school player could make the leap to the NFL, with Adrian Peterson frequently mentioned.

2004: College Decision

In 2004, Adrian Peterson committed to the University of Oklahoma after considering multiple schools. He also played in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, where he announced his college choice.

2006: Collarbone Injury

In 2006, Adrian Peterson broke his collarbone during a game against Iowa State, sidelining him for several weeks.

2011: ACL and MCL Tear

In late 2011, Adrian Peterson tore both his ACL and MCL in a game.

October 11, 2013: Death of Peterson's Son

On October 11, 2013, Adrian Peterson's two-year-old son died due to injuries sustained during an alleged assault.

2013: 2013 Season Performance

In 2013, Peterson opened the season with a 78-yard touchdown run and later faced personal tragedy with the death of his son, yet still played. He finished the season with 1,266 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.

September 12, 2014: Indicted on Child Abuse Charges

On September 12, 2014, Peterson was indicted on child abuse charges and deactivated by the Vikings, leading to a tumultuous season.

2014: Indictment and Suspension

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

February 6, 2015: Federal Court Appeal Hearing Scheduled

In December 2014, Peterson's league appeal was upheld, and a federal court appeal hearing was scheduled for February 6, 2015.

2016: Opened Gym with Trent Williams

In 2016, Adrian Peterson and Trent Williams opened a gym in Houston featuring a soccer field, MMA training area, and an incline running hill.

2017: Viral Street Interview

In 2017, a video clip of Adrian Peterson went viral after he gave a random street interview on handling road rage, without the interviewer initially knowing his identity.