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 While it studies the case under its Personal Conduct Policy, the
NFL said Peterson would remain on its Exempt List, meaning he will
not play but receive his full $11.75 million salary.
Peterson, 29, reached a plea deal on Tuesday to charges of abusing
his 4-year-old son that would see the former NFL Most Valuable
Player avoid jail time.
He was arrested in September for hitting his son with a switch, or
thin three branch, as a form of discipline. The switch caused welts
over parts of the child's body.
The six-time Pro Bowl running back has taken responsibility for his
actions, saying he loves his son and was handing out the same type
of discipline he received as a youth.
Peterson pleaded no contest in a Conroe, Texas, courtroom to a
misdemeanor assault charge and must pay a $4,000 fine and perform
community service.
 "The NFL advised Adrian Peterson this afternoon that following his
plea agreement to resolve his criminal case in Texas his matter will
now be reviewed for potential discipline under the NFL's Personal
Conduct Policy," the NFL said in a statement.
Separately, shoe and apparel company Nike said on Thursday it
terminated its contract with Peterson after suspending the deal in
September.
The NFL has been under fire for what was widely viewed as a soft
stance on domestic abuse and recently strengthened its sanctions
against such crimes.
Peterson can request a hearing before any NFL sanctions, according
to the league statement.
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The NFL said it requested that Peterson "submit relevant information
regarding his case and meet with designated experts," who will make
recommendations on possible discipline to Commissioner Roger
Goodell.
Peterson's lawyer, Rusty Hardin, told Reuters through a spokeswoman
on Thursday that he "welcomes the NFL taking a thorough, and
hopefully expeditious, look at this matter."
In an interview with Reuters on Wednesday, Hardin said Peterson, who
has played in only one game this year, was ready to get back on the
field and should not receive additional sanctions.
The Vikings absorbed heavy criticism for holding Peterson out for
only one game until one of its sponsors, hotel chain Radisson,
suspended its contract with the team.
(Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Peter Cooney)
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