In news that could potentially shake the dynamics of the first 10 picks in this weekend’s draft, SI.com’s Don Banks reports former Oklahoma tailback Adrian Peterson re-injured his collarbone while playing in the Fiesta Bowl in January. Apparently, Peterson disclosed the injury at the NFL Combine in March, but it’s just now coming to light.
This is compelling information if it’s true. Not that a collarbone injury is a massive concern, but certainly any injury that forces a player to have surgery has to be taken seriously. Plus, part of the knock on Peterson is that he runs too upright and therefore is overly susceptible to being injured. The Cleveland Browns are one of the top teams interested in Peterson, but have also been linked to Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn and Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas. It’s realistic to think the Browns have already made their decision regarding the third overall pick, but it’s worth speculating they were scared off of Peterson after the NFL Combine.
If you’re into conspiracy theories, maybe the Bills or Packers (two teams interested in a running back) released the information in hopes Peterson falls to the back half of the top 10 and will make a move to trade up. Oh the NFL Draft tension mounts.
