Ranking the 10 Best Players in the NFL

3. Adrian Peterson, RB

Dec 23, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) runs the ball against the Houston Texans in the first quarter at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

In 2012 Adrian Peterson accumulated 2,097 rushing yards. He also carried the Minnesota Vikings to a surprising playoff birth in 2012.

Peterson did not have much of a supporting cast with the Minnesota Vikings in 2012. Opposing defenses knew who the main threat was going into the the game and yet could not slow down Peterson and his violent running style that allowed him to get 1,369 yards after contact.

There was speculation on whether or not Peterson could continue to be the dominant player we are all accustomed to after tearing his MCL and ACL at the end of the 2011 season.  Peterson did not miss a beat, he actually had the best season of his career when most wondered if he could produced coming off a major injury.

Peterson’s efforts in 2012 earned him Most Valuable Player; a well deserved honor.