Adrian Peterson struck a plea deal this week to put an end to the criminal investigation into alleged child abuse against his 4-year-old son by pleading "no contest" to a lesser misdemeanor charge.
The All-Pro NFL running back copped to reckless assault Tuesday in Montgomery County Court, just north of Houston, Texas, and the plea agreement includes two years of probation, 80 hours of community service,
and a $4,000 fine, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Peterson, who hopes the deal will open the door for him to return to the Minnesota Vikings, came under the microscope for allegedly disciplining his 4-year-old son with a switch — a small tree branch — and a belt. Under the agreement, he will be permitted to see the boy.
"I truly regret the incident," Peterson told reporters after his appearance in court. "I take full responsibility for my action. I love my son more than any of you know. I am anxious to be back with him. I'm glad this is over and I can put it behind me."
The Vikings star faced a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $4,000 fine for the higher felony assault charge, the Chronicle noted.
Sports Illustrated's Michael McCann said Peterson, who is currently on the NFL's exemption list, could receive a suspension now that the case is over.
"[NFL Commissioner Roger] Goodell is likely to impose a suspension given that Peterson has pleaded no contest to a crime," McCann wrote. "The personal conduct policy clearly authorizes Goodell to impose a penalty in this scenario. Goodell has also used this authority in an arguably similar situation."
NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy told the Chronicle that the NFL has just started reviewing the Peterson case.
"We will review the matter, including the court record, and then make a determination on his status," he said. "We cannot provide a timetable."
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