Adrian Peterson releases statement thanking fans

Adrian Peterson says he's pleased to be ''one step closer'' to returning to the field.

Peterson's agency, Relativity Sports, released a statement from the Minnesota running back Friday, expressing ''gratitude for all of the support'' from fans, the NFL Players Association, union lawyer Jeffrey Kessler and his agents.

His statement didn't mention the Vikings at all, though, after repeated praise of Peterson from team officials in recent weeks. General manager Rick Spielman said his expectation is that Peterson will be back with Minnesota.

The statement reads as follows: 

"I was pleased to learn about Judge Doty’s decision. It is a positive step in protecting players' rights and preserving due process for all players. It also brings me one step closer to getting back on the football field and playing the sport I love. As I prepare for my return to football, I am still focused on my family and continue to work to become a better father every day. I want to express my gratitude for all of the support I have received from the fans, NFLPA, Jeffrey Kessler, and my agents Ben Dogra, Tracy Lartigue, and Mark Heligman from Relativity Sports."

U.S. District Judge David Doty ruled Thursday that the arbitrator erred in denying Peterson's appeal of his suspension under the NFL's personal conduct policy. The league countered by filing an appeal of Doty's decision to a higher court and returning Peterson to the exempt list.