Why Adrian Peterson to the Cowboys isn't as unrealistic as you maythink...

The Cowboys made a move today to attempt to upgrade the running back position by adding Darren McFadden. Many are skeptical whether he can contribute or not. The fact is that he is only guaranteed 200K, so this is a no risk, potential reward situation. However he is likely not going to be the starting running back heading into 2015. He will add depth as a physical back to complement the depth that Randle provides with speed. I remain convinced the best move for the Cowboys would be to use cap space on a pass rusher and corner back and draft Todd Gurley or Melvin Gordon with the 27th pick. However, if the best rusher of the past decade appears on the free agent market, you would be crazy not to consider it. Here are a few reasons why it would not surprise me to see AP in a Cowboys uniform in 2015.

1. His Cap Number. Adrian Peterson is set to count 15.4 million against the cap for the Vikings next year. If they release him, they will create 13 million in cap space. His cap number is set to be 15 million in 2016 and 17 million in 2017. I have heard the AP to the Cowboys could "cost the Cowboys many draft picks". Nonsense. Nobody uses a drat pick to trade for a RB set to make 15 million. Nobody would likely offer AP 15 million if he was a free agent today, why would they give up a draft pick to acquire that? 

2. Discontent. Adrian Peterson was not happy with the Vikings decision to place him on the commissioner's exempt list in 2014. He has expressed his desire to move on from the Vikings. 

3. Future. Vikings are not in a position to win now. With a draft full of strong running backs, the Vikings should look for a cheaper replacement through the draft. Money would be better spent building a younger nucleus around a young developing quarterback.

4. Home. AP has made it known he would like to be a Cowboy before he retires. If he is released from the Vikings, the Cowboys would likely be the odds on favorite to sign him given his desire to play there and the team's need at the position. I don't think AP would come cheap, but I do believe he would give the Cowboys a hometown discount. 

If Adrian Peterson becomes a free agent, expect the Cowboys to make an offer as strong or stronger than they did for Demarco Murray. He has been the best back in the NFL the past decade and is yet to show signs of slowing down. After sitting nearly the entire 2014 season, a fresh AP could help the Cowboys continue the success on the ground behind one of the NFL's top offensive lines.