Adrian Peterson Leaves Vikings' Practice With Hip Pointer

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) _ Minnesota Vikings rookie running back Adrian Peterson left Thursday's practice with an injury after taking an elbow to his hip while catching a pass in a drill, but he said it

Thursday, August 2nd 2007, 3:41 pm

By: News On 6

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) _ Minnesota Vikings rookie running back Adrian Peterson left Thursday's practice with an injury after taking an elbow to his hip while catching a pass in a drill, but he said it wasn't serious.

``It's not a big deal at all,'' said Peterson, a former standout at Oklahoma who called the injury a minor hip pointer.

Peterson missed the first five practices of training camp before signing on Sunday a five-year, $40.5 million contract that includes $17 million guaranteed. His status is day to day, but he's unlikely to participate in weekend scrimmages against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Backfield mate Chester Taylor is also not expected to suit up against the Chiefs. He has been bothered this week by a bruised forearm.

Though left tackle Bryant McKinnie was activated from the non-football injury list Wednesday after sitting out with a strained hamstring, the Vikings have had their share of minor injuries during the first week of camp.

Cornerback Ronyell Whitaker, who is competing for a backup spot, was carted off from Thursday's practice after spraining his ankle. Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said it wasn't serious.