Alexander Shun | @alexpshun
Digital Content Manager | KFAN.com
A player's jersey number in sports can be a surprisingly personal thing and, most times, the number is chosen with extreme precision. In the case of new Minnesota Vikings running back Latavius Murray, he will look to find a new number.
Murray's number in Oakland, No. 28, was previously worn in Minnesota by Adrian Peterson, arguably the best running back in Vikings history. Because of the history of that number in Minnesota, Murray has decided that he will find a new number out of respect for Peterson and all that he accomplished in Minnesota.
"There wasn't a thought in my mind to try and wear or ask for the #28," Murray said. "I have too much respect for AP and so much respect for what he's done and what he means to this organization."
During his time in Minnesota Peterson rushed for just under 12,000 yards and ran for 97 touchdowns to go with almost 2,000 yards and five touchdowns in the receiving game.
Peterson is considered by many to be a lock for the Hall-of-Fame and because of that, the number 28 in Minnesota has become tied to the former first-round pick. That means a number change for Murray, something he is perfectly okay with.
Murray explained why he chose to wear 28 when he began playing football and noted that Peterson was a reason why he kept it.
"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," Murray explained. "When AP came onto the scene and Fred retired, he was my reason for keeping number 28."
While many Vikings fans and football analysts see the former Raider as a 'replacement' for Peterson in Minnesota, Murray made it clear that replacing a legend was simply not possible and something he had no intention of trying to do.
"I want to say to Vikings fans: I'm not here to replace number 28, he's irreplaceable," Murray said. "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."