Adrian Peterson: Washington release 'caught me by surprise'

The Washington Football Team's decision to cut Adrian Peterson came as a surprise to everyone, including him. Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Adrian Peterson says Washington release 'caught me by surprise'

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 9/4/20

Adrian Peterson was released by the Washington Football Team on Friday, and it wasn't something he was expecting.

According to NFL reporter Josina Anderson, Peterson revealed that being released by the club caught him off guard because he was having such a strong training camp.

Hall of Fame RB Adrian Peterson to me on Washington release: “It caught me by surprise. I was having a strong camp. It was showing up on film, taking #1 reps all the way to this week. I just got notified by the running backs coach yesterday that they want to give these.... [ 1/4]
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 4, 2020

[Cont] "..young guys some reps, but I didn’t know I was going to get cut, there was no indication. Today (Ron) Rivera just said this is always tough, but yes we’re gonna release you & go with this offensive style. I respect coach. Look (Antonio) Gibson is a hell of a talent...2/4
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 4, 2020

[Cont] "...This system really fits him. I feel like I can do that pony style too, more as a receiving back. We were all working on it, but they really want one main guy to do it & they drafted Gibson for it. Trust me, I still have a lot in me, more to strive for & do again...3/4
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 4, 2020

[Peterson to me cont] "...even when there’s doubt. I feel strong & I can build on that as the season wears on. I'll do it again." 4/4
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) September 4, 2020

Peterson, 35, rushed for 1,940 yards and 12 touchdowns in two seasons with Washington. He missed just one game when Jay Gruden made him a healthy inactive for a game in 2019.

Peterson is fifth on the all-time rushing list with 14,216 yards -- just 1,053 yards behind No. 4 Barry Sanders.

The four-time All-Pro was lined up to be the starter after Washington released Derrius Guice this summer, but it seems the club has decided to move in another direction. Antonio Gibson, Bryce Love, Peyton Barber and J.D McKissic are the remaining backs in Washington after Peterson's release.

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