Report: Adrian Peterson to have surgery Thursday, could be out a while

The running back said he's going under the knife with 'faith and optimism'

Adrian Peterson suffered a torn meniscus in his right knee during the Vikings win over the Packers Sunday night, and there was some belief he wouldn't even miss a single game.

That won't be the case, however, as Peterson is having surgery on Thursday, he told Josina Anderson of ESPN.

#Vikings RB Adrian Peterson told me he's planning to have surgery on Thurs to repair his meniscus. He's "doing it with faith and optimism."

— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 21, 2016

Peterson has what is known as "bucket handle tear." I'm told that's a minm of 3-4 months out & up 6months usually. Again Peterson has faith.

— Josina Anderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 21, 2016

Peterson was one of seven key running backs who suffered an injury during Week 2's action, but his was the most significant, in terms of what he means to his team.

He's been Minnesota's workhorse for a long time and with Teddy Bridgewater out he was expected to carry the load for a team with Super Bowl hopes.

If Peterson misses multiple months, it could very well mean the Vikings are forced to rely on Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata instead, although the emergence of Stephon Diggs in the passing game and Sam Bradford playing well against Green Bay is a big plus in terms of being optimistic.

Peterson has returned in short time spans from previous injuries -- his ACL tear most notable -- but surgery from a torn meniscus could potentially cost him the season.

Bet against All Day at your own risk, but it is conceivable -- considering the ramifications of his contract moving forward -- that we've seen the last carry from Peterson a member of the Vikings.

This surgery, in other words, is going to keep him on the sideline for quite a while.