Peterson has pulled hamstring, so Vikings being cautious

MANKATO, Minn. (AP) - The Minnesota Vikings have taken a cautious start to the season with running back Adrian Peterson, because of a hamstring pull he suffered prior to training camp while working out.

Peterson has been held out of full-team drills, doing some conditioning work on the side with head athletic trainer Eric Sugarman.

"He can do things. He just can't turn it all the way. So we're just being careful," coach Mike Zimmer said.

The Vikings kept kickoff returner/wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson out of practice Saturday, following an injury around his left shoulder Friday that occurred while he fell trying to make a catch. Patterson was in immediate discomfort after the play but appeared to be in good spirits later.

Offensive lineman Mike Harris is dealing with an undisclosed illness that's keeping him out of practice. Harris, the starter at right tackle last season who was in line to compete with Brandon Fusco for the job at right guard, said Saturday he hopes to be able to return soon. Harris, however, said he wasn't sure when or if he'd be on the field this season.

"It's really just a medical deal that we've got to get cleared up. As soon as that happens, he can come," Zimmer said. "But I have no idea how long it's going to be."

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