AP

Vikings running back Adrian Peterson met with the media on Friday afternoon for the first time since word broke that his two-year old son is in a South Dakota hospital after allegedly being beaten by his mother’s boyfriend.

Sean Jensen of the Pioneer Press reports that Peterson said that he plans to play against the Panthers on Sunday, explaining that he’s able to release a lot of stress on the field. Peterson also thanked the Vikings for their support and asked for privacy while his family deals with a horrible situation.

“I really appreciate all the support from fans and the Vikings. I ask y’all respect my privacy,” Peterson said.

There aren’t too many moments in these parts when football is secondary, but this is certainly one of them. Whatever happens on the field this weekend, we hope that the next few days bring better news to Peterson and his family.