Adrian Peterson entered the NFL with a rare combination of size, strength, and burst that made him one of the most intriguing running back prospects in years. This profile explains his draft context, what teams saw in him, and how the 2007 NFL Draft shaped his path to the league. Below, you will find verified details about his pre-draft measurements, combine performance, draft position, and early team evaluation.
Pre-Draft Profile and College Production
Before declaring for the 2007 NFL Draft, Adrian Peterson established himself as one of the most dynamic runners in college football at the University of Oklahoma. His tape featured punishing runs between the tackles and the ability to turn broken plays into significant gains. Scouts noted his low center of gravity, strong hands, and willingness to attack contact. Off-field discipline and a documented improvement in pass protection were central to his value proposition, even as teams worried about durability questions tied to his undersized frame for a power runner.
Pre-Draft Measurements and Combine Metrics
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches | NFL Combine / NFL Draft records |
| Weight | 212 pounds | NFL Combine / NFL Draft records |
| Arm Length | 29 5/8 inches | NFL Combine |
| Hand Span | 9 1/8 inches | NFL Combine |
| 40-Yard Dash (10–20–20yd) | 1.62s / 2.63s (10–20); 4.43s (20–30) | NFL Combine |
| Bench Press (225 lb) | 21 reps | NFL Combine |
Draft Night Outcome
Drafted by the Minnesota Vikings with the 28th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Peterson was selected just before notable running backs such as Darren McFadden. His fall to this spot reflected lingering concerns about durability and frame, but the Vikings prioritized his elite athletic traits and production. In the table below, you can see how his draft position compared to peers and the typical expectations for a running back selected in the first round.
Adrian Peterson Draft Selection Snapshot
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Draft Round | First Round (28th overall) | Minnesota Vikings, 2007 |
| Overall Position | 28th pick | Late first round selection> |
| Position Rank in Draft | Third running back taken | After McFadden, Grant |
| Contract Details (Rookie) | Four-year deal, fully guaranteed | Includes significant signing bonus |
How the Draft Shaped His Early Career
The Vikings used Peterson’s draft capital to address a running back depth issue and to leverage his rare burst in their scheme. His rookie contract allowed him time to develop in a system built to maximize downhill running. Early evaluations pointed to his disciplined route running in the passing game and steadily improving pass protection, which helped prolong his time with the franchise. However, questions about his long-term durability persisted and occasionally influenced contract discussions down the line.
Immediate Impact and Milestones
- 2007: Entered training camp competing for a backup role behind recognized veterans.
- 2008: Became the starting running back midseason and recorded multiple 100-yard games.
- 2009: Solidified himself as the franchise centerpiece, earning Pro Bowl honors.
- 2012: Won the NFL MVP award after leading the league in both rushing yards and touchdowns.
Scouting Takeaways and Comparisons
Peterson’s draft class highlighted how teams value different skill sets for running backs. Teams prioritized size and receiving ability more heavily in later rounds, while Minnesota focused on rare physical tools and production. His combine profile, particularly his short-area burst and vertical jump, stood out even among higher-round prospects. For teams with patience for skill-development projects, late-first or early-second round running backs with his traits represented high-upside investments.
Representative Draft-Class Comparison
| Metric | Adrian Peterson | Darren McFadden | Knowshon Moreno |
|---|---|---|---|
| Draft Position | 28th overall | 4th overall | 12th overall |
| College | Oklahoma | Arkansas | Georgia Tech |
| Primary Strength | Burst and balance | Elusiveness | Pass blocking |
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team drafted Adrian Peterson, and with what pick?
The Minnesota Vikings selected Adrian Peterson with the 28th overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft.
How did Peterson’s measurables compare to other first-round running backs in 2007?
Peterson was slightly below average in size and weight but above average in short-area speed, vertical leap, and burst metrics. His combine numbers supported his reputation as a playmaker rather than a classic power back.
Did concerns about his size affect his contract and role early in his career?
Yes, size and durability concerns contributed to a fall to the late first round. The Vikings used that opportunity to develop him within a system tailored to his skill set while managing load in his rookie season.
How did the 2007 class of running backs compare in terms of draft success?
Darren McFadden went earlier and had an elite career, while Peterson’s path featured a faster path to production and MVP-level performance, albeit with greater injury volatility later. The class illustrated varied risk-and-reward profiles for teams investing in running backs.
What measurable attributes stood out in Peterson’s pre-draft testing?
His 40-yard dash split from 10 to 20 yards, combined with a strong vertical jump and broad jump, highlighted rare acceleration and lower-body power for a running back of his size.