Adrian Peterson Arrested for DWI Hours After Vikings Draft Party

• Apr 25, 2025

Former Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was arrested early Friday morning in Minnesota on a DWI charge. The arrest came just hours after Peterson made a special appearance at the Vikings' 2025 NFL Draft celebration at U.S. Bank Stadium.

According to the Minnesota State Highway Patrol, the 40-year-old Peterson was pulled over around 3:20 a.m. and later booked into the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office. He is facing a fourth-degree misdemeanor charge of driving while impaired, based on online records.

TMZ Sports reported that Peterson was stopped for driving 83 miles per hour in a 55-mph zone. The arresting officer suspected he was intoxicated, and later testing revealed a blood alcohol level of .14, which is well above the legal limit of .08.

Peterson, who is widely considered a future Hall of Famer, is one of the most decorated players in Vikings history. Over a ten-year career with the team, he earned seven All-Pro selections and was named NFL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year in the same season. He also led the league three times in rushing yards and twice in rushing touchdowns.

On Thursday night, Peterson joined Vikings fans at U.S. Bank Stadium to celebrate the team's picks in the first round of the draft. His appearance was a highlight for many attendees, given his celebrated status in the franchise's history.

After his arrest, Peterson was booked into jail but released about two hours later on a $4,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 9 to address the charge.

The incident adds a troubling note to what had been a night of celebration for the Vikings and their fans. It also brings unwanted attention to Peterson, who has had previous legal troubles off the field during his post-playing career.

As of now, neither Peterson nor representatives for the Minnesota Vikings have issued a public statement regarding the incident. His court appearance next month will likely shed more light on the situation and any potential consequences he may face.