The Minnesota Vikings’ status as a popular sleeper pick rests largely upon the notion that Adrian Peterson’s return will give their offense the boost necessary to make them contenders in the NFC North.

That being the case, any hint of a possible injury to Peterson will naturally be met with strong concern if not downright panic by the Vikings’ suddenly-optimistic fanbase.

Well, get ready to panic or at least be strongly concerned. Because today Adrian Peterson had to leave practice early with an apparent leg injury.

The news as it played out via beat reporter tweets:

Adrian Peterson just limped to the sideline after taking a hard hit in the hole. I didn't see who got him. — Matt Vensel (@mattvensel) August 11, 2015

Next series Adrian Peterson replaced by Jerick McKinnon on the first team. Peterson has his helmet off on the sideline. #Vikings — VikingUpdate.com (@VikingUpdate) August 11, 2015

And now Adrian Peterson is back in. Walking fine. Breathe easy, #Vikings fans. — VikingUpdate.com (@VikingUpdate) August 11, 2015

Adrian Peterson walking off field toward locker room had what was thought to be minor fall earlier In practice — Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) August 11, 2015

Adrian Peterson left practice after fall earlier. Was walking with slight limp before, but didn't appear to be serious at the time. — Ben Goessling (@GoesslingESPN) August 11, 2015

Quick blog: Adrian Peterson leaves Vikings practice with leg injury; severity unknown http://t.co/VyGpZsOXCY — Star Tribune Sports (@StribSports) August 11, 2015

The Vikings are probably boned. But we’ll wait to find out for sure.