NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Saints and free-agent running back Adrian Peterson agreed on a two-year contract Tuesday.

The deal means Peterson, a 10-year veteran who has seven 1,000-yard seasons with Minnesota and once eclipsed 2,000 yards, could become a backup running back on an offense that tends to pass more than run.

Adrian Peterson

Still, Coach Sean Payton said he envisions a productive role for Peterson, who is coming back from a 2016 meniscal tear that required season-ending knee surgery after only three games.

“It’s rare and unique to have the opportunity to add a (potential) Hall of Fame player to your roster. His career has been top-notch,” Payton said in a statement provided by the club. “We think he will be an excellent fit in our locker room and in our offense.”

Peterson, 32, has spent his entire career with the Vikings. His career-best 2,097-yard rushing season in 2012 came one season after he had reconstructive knee surgery to repair a torn ACL.

STEELERS: The NFL conditionally reinstated wide receiver Martavis Bryant from his yearlong suspension.

Bryant was suspended in March 2016 for a second violation of the league’s substance-abuse policy.

TITANS: Tennessee picked up the fifth-year option on left tackle Taylor Lewan.

The 11th pick overall in 2014, Lewan helped anchor a much-improved offensive line last season. The Titans ranked third in the NFL in rushing offense and also tied for seventh-fewest sacks allowed.