Adrian Peterson, 32, has agreed to join the New Orleans Saints on a two year deal starting in 2017 after the Minnesota Vikings declined their 18 million option. He became a free agent, spoke with ESPN reporter Josina Anderson, and confirmed a contract with a team option for 2018. The agreement includes 3.5 million guaranteed in year one, with specific roster and workout bonuses in year two.
Contract Structure and Guaranteed Money
Peterson said the agreement functions as a one year contract with a club option for the second year. This means the Saints control 2018, and the team can decide to keep him based on fit and health.
The total guarantee is 3.5 million for 2017, made up of a 2.5 million signing bonus and a 1 million guaranteed base salary. This gives the player security in his first season in New Orleans.
For 2018, none of the money is guaranteed. That season is built around a mix of base pay and roster triggers. These levers protect the team while rewarding the player if he is on the field.
Based on these figures, estimates point to a 2017 salary charge of about 2.25 million and up to 4.75 million in 2018 if all bonuses are earned.
Year by Year Money for 2017 and 2018
The deal splits cleanly between a guaranteed first year and an incentive heavy second year. The table below lists the main parts that shape each season.
| Year | Component | Amount | Guarantee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Signing bonus | $2,500,000 | Fully guaranteed | Paid upon signing |
| 2017 | Base salary | $1,000,000 | Fully guaranteed | Year one base pay |
| 2018 | Base salary | $1,050,000 | Not guaranteed | Club option year |
| 2018 | Roster bonus | $750,000 | Not guaranteed | Earned on day 3 of free agency |
| 2018 | Per game roster bonuses | $1,650,000 | Not guaranteed | Tied to weekly active status |
| 2018 | Workout bonus | $50,000 | Not guaranteed | Offseason program |
| Totals | Cash potential | $7,000,000 | $3,500,000 guaranteed | Two year maximum value |
In short, 2017 delivers guaranteed cash, while 2018 must be earned through roster status and play. This balance is common for veteran contracts at this stage of a career.
Why a Two Year Agreement Made Sense
The Vikings declined an 18 million option, which placed Peterson on the open market. That number was too high for his former team after injuries limited his recent seasons.
The Saints structure lowers risk while allowing upside if he stays healthy and productive. The option year with roster triggers fits a veteran back who still aims to prove his value.
The format gives the player a clear path to more money in 2018 and gives the team flexibility if plans change.
Reactions and Key Dates to Watch
Peterson told Josina Anderson he planned to sign with New Orleans and later shared full terms. He also said his wife and family supported the decision, which adds a personal note to the move.
- Second year money is not guaranteed, with a roster trigger on the third day of free agency in 2018.
- Per game roster bonuses in 2018 reward weekly availability and active status.
- Workout bonus in 2018 ties a small sum to offseason participation.
The next big marker is the early free agency date in 2018, when the roster bonus can lock in. Until then, the focus sits on 2017 performance and fit in the Saints offense.
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