Former Oakland Raiders running back Latavius Murray has signed a three-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings worth roughly $15 million, but he won't be wearing his familiar #28 out of respect for Adrian Peterson.
Murray took to instagram to announce that he originally wore the #28 in honor of Fred Taylor and continued to wear it once Peterson burst onto the scene, but will be switching it up now that he's playing for AP's former squad.
"There wasn't a thought in my mind to try and wear or ask for the #28. I have too much respect for AP and so much respect for what he's done and what he means to this organization."
"Many people don't know, but I wore the #28 as a kid because of Fred Taylor who played for the Jaguars at the time. When AP came onto the scene and Fred retired, he was my reason for keeping #28."
"I want to say to Vikings fans: I'm not here to replace #28, he's irreplaceable. I'm not here to be #28, there's no one like him. I ask that you accept me for the player I am and know that I'm here to give you all I got and to win."
The 27-year old running back ran for 788 yards and a career-high 12 touchdowns on 195 carries last season in Oakland. His arrival in Minnesota all but guarantees AP will be playing for a new team next season.