Peterson suspended, launches appeal

AdrianPeterson

Six-time Pro Bowl running-back Peterson pleaded no contest to charges of reckless assault after beating his four-year-old son with a tree branch.

The 29-year-old has not played since the charges were revealed after his team reneged on an initial decision to allow him to feature through his legal proceedings, taking advantage of the league's offer to place Peterson on the Exempt/Commissioner's Permission List.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell ruled on Tuesday that Peterson would not be eligible for reinstatement before April 15 and the completion of a rehabilitation program.

And in a statement released by the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), it was confirmed that Peterson would launch an appeal against the league's decision.

It read: "The decision by the NFL to suspend Adrian Peterson is another example of the credibility gap that exists between the agreements they make and the actions they take. Since Adrian's legal matter was adjudicated, the NFL has ignored their obligations and attempted to impose a new and arbitrary disciplinary proceeding.

"The facts are that Adrian has asked for a meeting with Roger Goodell, the discipline imposed is inconsistent and an NFL executive told Adrian that his time on the Commissioner's list would be considered as time served.

"The NFLPA will appeal this suspension and will demand that a neutral arbitrator oversee the appeal.

"We call on the NFL Management Council to show our players and our sponsors leadership by committing to collective bargaining so a fair personal conduct policy can be implemented as quickly as possible."

Though the initial decision saw Peterson suspended without pay, his appeal keeps him on the Commissioner's Exemption List for the time being, meaning he will continue to be paid until a decision is made.

A subsequent statement from the Vikings read: "The NFL has informed the Vikings of today's decision regarding Adrian Peterson. We respect the league's decision and will have no further comment at this time."

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