Running Back Adrian Peterson Suffers Meniscus Tear in Right Knee

The star running back Adrian Peterson suffered a meniscus tear in his right knee, and the Minnesota Vikings are still unable to determine how much time he will miss.

Peterson sustained the injury in the third quarter of Minnesota's 17-14 victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night. The player needed crutches to leave U.S. Bank Stadium, but it seems that Peterson will be able to return this season following initial fears of an anterior cruciate ligament tear.

Vikings coach Mike Zimmer spoke about the injury during his weekly appearance on the radio show KFXN-FM before holding a press conference with the media.

Zimmer stated that he has not ruled out Peterson playing next Sunday against the Carolina Panthers and added that the team is exploring all options to treat the running back's injury.

Peterson is consulting with team doctors and trainers to assess his alternatives, which include surgery.

"We are in the middle of the evaluation process to decide what the next course of action will be," Zimmer said in his weekly press conference. "We are considering each of the options."

Peterson, the Most Valuable Player of the 2012 season, got hurt on a 5-yard carry, his longest of the night.

He has a history of recovering quickly from injuries.

This was the case when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee with two weeks remaining in the 2011 season and was able to play in the beginning of the 2012 campaign. A meniscus tear is considered less serious than a ligament tear, but it requires several weeks of rehabilitation.

The Vikings (2-0) have three more games to play before their bye week.

In just two games, Peterson had recorded 50 yards on 31 carries.

"We are going to have to persevere and continue to find ways to win," Zimmer said.

Peterson's situation is not the only one concerning the Vikings.

Their new quarterback, Sam Bradford, showed discomfort in his left hand during the game. He was sacked four times by the Packers' defense and ended up with a swollen hand.