Post-NFL life has been tough on former running back Adrian Peterson. A judge on Tuesday ordered the 2012 MVP to turn over his personal assets to settle a $12 million debt.
The hole began as a $5.2 million business loan from a Pennsylvania-based company in 2016, but the interest and other fees have caused Peterson’s bill to double in recent years.
A court-appointed receiver who has been directed to collect the money asked a judge for permission to create an inventory of Peterson’s assets for a potential auction. The judge approved the request on Monday.
The Entertainers & Athletes Group, a public relations firm, said Peterson’s former financial adviser, Jeff Wiseman, should be responsible for the loan.
“This was not a personal loan taken out by Peterson but a business loan, and Wiseman guaranteed that it would be repaid from the company’s profits,” the Entertainers & Athletes Group said in a statement. “Unfortunately, the company failed to repay the loan, leaving Peterson financially liable for the debt.”
Peterson’s attorneys have lobbied to keep authorities from auctioning off items in the former running back’s storage units, including his 2007 Rookie of the Year trophy.
Peterson, 39, last played in the NFL in 2021. He started his career as a four-time All-Pro with the Minnesota Vikings before joining six teams toward the end of his career, including a two-season stint with the Washington Redskins.
After rushing for almost 15,000 yards, Peterson will likely become a Pro Football Hall of Famer when he hits the ballot in 2027.
This article is based in part on wire service reports.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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