MANKATO — Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has taken another important step forward in his recovery from reconstructive surgery on his left knee: taking part in his first full-pads practice.

Peterson was finally cleared for full activity Tuesday. He carried the ball only a handful of times in full team drills with the first team offense, and he wasn’t touched by the defense.

That was the mandate from the coaching staff, to protect the Vikings star at all costs. Peterson said the precaution was unnecessary. He had a big smile on his face for much of the afternoon, except when he unsuccessfully lobbied the coaches to take a couple more snaps.

This was the first time since his injury last Dec. 24 he put shoulder pads on.