Peterson Appeal Trial To Resume Thursday
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Adrian Peterson's appeal hearing in New York City came to an end after more than three hours Tuesday, and will resume Thursday.
The Minnesota Vikings running back is trying to reverse his indefinite suspension from the NFL. He pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless assault last month for hitting his 4-year-old son with a switch. He didn't face any jail time, but he was suspended from the NFL for the season.
Hamline University law professor Joseph Daly has read through the entire 301 page contract between the NFL Players Association and the NFL. He says Peterson likely argued he had grasped the seriousness of his offense.
"Admit that he did not understand there was a line that was crossed by using a switch on his child," Daly said.
While no decision was made on Peterson's suspension, ESPN reports the hearing officer did rule NFL executive Troy Vincent will have to testify.
"I'm not surprised the hearing officer would say I want to hear what this person has to say," Daly said.
Peterson's appeal could have grounds based on Ravens running back Ray Rice.
He had his season long suspension reversed after he had already served a two game suspension as punishment for domestic violence.
"I think Adrian Peterson will probably use the same argument," Daly said. "That he's being twice punished for that."
For the fans, they're on the fence about seeing Peterson back in Minnesota or on any field.
"I think he has destroyed that quality of representation," Averill Kronick, from Minneapolis, said.
"I think he should be able to play and the Vikings and the NFL should give him another chance," Chelsea Valtierra, from St. Paul, said.
Under Peterson's suspension, he would not be considered for reinstatement to the NFL before April 15.
The NFL has provided no timeline for a final ruling.
