AP

Earlier today, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported that talks are occurring regarding a possible plea bargain for Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. That is true.

Per a source with knowledge of the situation, a plea agreement (if reached) would reduce the pending felony child-abuse charges to a misdemeanor.

That would trigger less severe sanctions in the criminal justice system, and it also could result in a reduced punishment for Peterson by the NFL.

Peterson hasn’t played since Week One, missing eight games under a deal that allows him to be paid while the charges are pending. It’s unknown how the NFL would treat the time missed by Peterson in assessing discipline under the personal conduct policy.

Peterson could potentially return to the Vikings this season. Without him, Matt Asiata and rookie Jerrick McKinnon have developed into a pretty good one-two punch.

A hearing has been set for 2:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday, at which time a deal could be presented to the judge. Efforts to reach the lawyers handling the case have been unsuccessful.