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Criticism mounting for Vikings after Adrian Peterson decision
Vikings Peterson Heal
Vikings general manger Rick Spielman talks with reporters about the decision to allow Adrian Peterson to play on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, Monday, Sept. 15 , 2014. in Eden Prairie, Minn. The Vikings had benched Peterson after news broke Friday that he had used a wooden switch to spank his 4-year-old son, causing unspecified injuries (AP Photo/The Star Tribune, Jerry Holt) - photo by Associated Press
MINNEAPOLIS — Adrian Peterson has been one of the most popular and marketable stars in the NFL, an approachable superstar with an inspirational comeback story that made him an endorser's dream. Now that he is facing a felony charge of child abuse for spanking his 4-year-old son with a wooden switch, the Minnesota running back is in the middle of a firestorm, and several sponsors are starting to distance themselves while the controversy envelopes a league in crisis. In the wake of the Vikings' decision to allow Peterson to play while the legal process plays out in Texas, the Radisson hotel chain has suspended its relationship with the Vikings.