Adrian Peterson understands what it's like to be a famous college athlete. The former Oklahoma running back was one of the most popular players in college football when he was the Heisman Trophy runner up in 2004. Peterson explained his belief that college players should be allowed to profit from their name when asked by Fox Sports about the situation of Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel.
Adrian Peterson on Johnny Manziel: NCAA athletes should get paid
Minnesota Vikings’ running back Adrian Peterson offered his opinion on the ongoing Johnny Manziel investigation.
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James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
Multiple reports have emerged alleging Manziel accepted money from numerous autograph brokers. The 2012 Heisman Trophy winner is at the center of investigation, and Peterson believes the rule itself is a problem.
“I think if you are in a position to where people want to pay you for your autographs or signatures, then you should be able to do that. He’s a young man and he should be able to sign his name on a helmet or wherever without it being an issue.”
Peterson hasn’t shied away from voicing his opinion on league rules. He was outspoken during the NFL’s CBA negotiations, comparing a player’s situation to “modern day slavery”. Peterson thinks that players should be able to receive payment because of the money universities make off college athletes.
“The universities are making a lot of money off of student athletes in general. So, yeah, he should be able to make money. I think so. They make millions off of these college athletes and they made millions off of the guys I played with as well. Yeah, he should be getting paid.”
Peterson is joined by Dallas Cowboys' wide receiver Dez Bryant who was extremely critical of how the NCAA is handling the investigation, and their treatment of student athletes.
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