Vikings Reverse Course, Place Adrian Peterson On Exempt List

The Minnesota Vikings announced early Wednesday morning that they had placed running back Adrian Peterson on the exempt/commissioner's permission list.

The change to running back Adrian Peterson's status will require him to stay away from the Minnesota Vikings while he takes care of legal proceedings regarding child abuse charges, according to a statement issued by the team.

Peterson faces a felony count for using a wooden switch to punish his 4-year-old son.

The Vikings announced early Wednesday morning that they had place Peterson on the exempt/commissioner's permission list.

Before that, Viking officials decided Peterson could play with the team while the legal process continued.

In a statement, owners Zygi and Mark Wilf stressed that the team has "a strong stance regarding the protection and welfare of children." "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 his community."

The Associated Press reports that several sponsors are either suspending their deals with the Vikings or severing ties with Peterson.

UPDATE:  Vikings owner Zygi Wilf says the team "made a mistake'' in bringing back Adrian Peterson following his indictment on a felony child-abuse charge in Texas.  Several NFL advertisers, including Anheuser-Busch, expressed concern about the league's recent off-the-field problems. The governor said it was embarrassing.
 
Early Wednesday, the team said Peterson would be barred from all activities. Co-owner Mark Wilf said the decision was "absolutely not'' related to sponsor concerns.