Another day, another major decision on the part of the NFL to help save face in a PR scandal that is beginning to cost the organization both fans and advertisers. Minnesota Vikings star player Adrian Peterson was suspended from playing last weekend due to an ongoing child-abuse case connected to his 4-year old son.
Peterson admitted to striking his son with a switch but contended that he himself suffered similar punishment as a child and that he never intended to cause real harm to the boy. The NFL reinstated Peterson briefly but then this morning it was announced that he has now been suspended from playing indefinitely.
In a joint statement that was issued early this morning Vikings owner Zygi Wilf and Mark Wilf, the team president said,
"While we were trying to make a balanced decision yesterday, after further reflection we have concluded that this resolution is best for the Vikings and for Adrian. We want to be clear: we have a strong stance regarding the protection and welfare of children, and we want to be sure we get this right. At the same time we want to express our support for Adrian and acknowledge his seven-plus years of outstanding commitment to this organization and this community. Adrian emphasized his desire to avoid further distraction to his teammates and coaches while focusing on his current situation; this resolution accomplishes these objectives as well."
Peterson has been directed to steer clear of all team activities until further notice but he will continue collecting his hefty paycheck. The NFL is also under scrutiny thanks to that elevator video tape of Ray Rice punching his now-wife, Janay Palmer earlier this year in Atlantic City. Rice is expected to appeal his indefinite ban from the league while commissioner Roger Goodell is still standing firm against many woman's organizations calling for his resignation.
These past few weeks have been devastating for the league's image and their flip-flopping on guidelines for what is appropriate punishment doesn't seem to sit well with advertisers and female fans.
Are you surprised that the Minnesota Vikings decided to bench Adrian Peterson again?
