If Adrian Peterson can withstand being merely a short-term option for the Philadelphia Eagles, he just might be the right one for the job.

It should be stated, clearly, that Peterson is not — at the moment — being seriously considered for the Eagles at this time. And, with just a few weeks to go before the NFL Draft gets started, it's unclear whether he really will be considered, seriously, for the team at this point.

However, according to NBC Sports, this should be something that's to be entertained, even in the short term, and it would work out well for all involved.

To wit:

“Even setting aside the question of whether Peterson is worth the risk, the Eagles don’t appear to be on his radar. He already mentioned four desired landing spots, including a return to the Vikings, and his father, Nelson, recently listed three more. That’s nearly one-quarter of the league, and the Eagles were not among them. That doesn’t mean Peterson wouldn’t play for the Eagles, but he clearly doesn’t think it’s the best fit.”

So, it sounds like Adrian Peterson doesn't want to consider being with the Eagles in the long-term. But, that's okay, because being with them in the short-term while proving his worth — especially since he's been out for a while with a torn meniscus — will make him more attractive to the teams that may be better suited for his purposes.

So, let's take a look at the Vikings — suppose Adrian Peterson signs with the Eagles, and then, less than six months or so later, the Vikings take him on. What would that scenario yield for all involved?

Peterson, for his part, feels that the Vikings need him, and logistically, he may be right. He just might not be in the prime of his life.

“Peterson has experienced a rebirth of sorts through his first four games, rushing for 236 yards and three touchdowns on 56 carries (4.2 yards per tote). Peterson has looked fairly similar to the horned-helmeted back who used to barrel through defenses. He isn't the Peterson of his prime, but he is effective. Minnesota can't say the same about its rushing attack, ranked t-29th in the league after five games at 3.4 yards per carry. Now's a good time for Peterson to toot his own horn, considering those numbers. But he's also taking a moment or two to pass along a “told ya so” message, even if its weight is only temporary.”

Overall, Adrian Peterson would be best suited to swallow his pride and do what's right for him and his beloved Vikings, in the long term, and sign a temporary contract with the Eagles to rebuild himself.