Adrian Peterson might not have to wait long for his return to University of Phoenix Stadium.
The 33-year-old running back has agreed to a contract with the Washington Redskins -- the Arizona Cardinals' first opponent of the 2018 regular season -- the Redskins announced Monday. Peterson was acquired by the Cardinals early last season in a trade with the New Orleans Saints following a season-ending injury to starting running back David Johnson.
"I'm elated. I'm so excited to have this opportunity." -@AdrianPeterson
Full Interview: https://t.co/lUql9WMOgy pic.twitter.com/rAFfjX3qk1
— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) August 20, 2018
A four-time All-Pro selection, Peterson is 12th in NFL history with a career 12,276 rushing yards, most of which came with the Minnesota Vikings. He rushed for 448 yards and two touchdowns in six games with the Cardinals last season but was placed on injured reserve late in the season with a neck injury. The Cardinals released Peterson in March.
The Redskins' signing of Peterson comes after rookie running back Derrius Guice suffered an ACL injury during a preseason game.
"It was a great experience. I was able to be around one of my best friends, Larry Fitzgerald, and some great people and a great organization, as well," Peterson told Redskins Nation about his time with the Cardinals. "I'll never forget: That Tuesday, I was in Arizona, and I was playing that Sunday."
The Cardinals and Redskins will meet in the regular-season opener for both teams on Sunday, Sept. 9 in Glendale.