The start of the NFL season is still months away, but the smack talk has already began. Vikings' running back Adrian Peterson made headlines earlier this week when he announced his goals for the 2008 season, which include 2000 yards rushing, becoming a better receiver out of the backfield, and winning the MVP award.

"I definitely feel like I can do it," Peterson told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune when asked about being voted the league's top player. "Anything is possible. Especially with how my mindset is. I set my bar high. I expect a lot from myself. I'm surrounded by a great group of guys offensively and defensively on both sides, special teams, so it's possible for anything to happen."

Peterson was on pace for a 2,000-yard rushing season eight games into his rookie year, but a lateral collateral ligament tear in his right knee suffered Nov. 11 at Green Bay forced him to miss two games. Even after his return though, the knee was clearly an issue. Peterson said Thursday the knee feels "perfectly fine."

He looked good the last time we saw him on the field in February that Peterson rushed for 129 yards on 16 carries and two touchdowns for the NFC en route to earning MVP honors at the Pro Bowl. Peterson said that week his goal was to rush for 2,000 yards -- an elite club that includes Eric Dickerson, Jamal Lewis, Barry Sanders, Terrell Davis and O.J. Simpson.

Peterson has the talent to clearly make a run at these goals, but durability has always been a question. Another factor could be the success of the team's passing game, led by young quarterback Tavaris Jackson. If Jackson continues to develop and improves enough with the addition of Bernard Berrian to the passing attack, Peterson could have some pressure taken off of him. Another factor will be how much Chester Taylor eats into his carries. I would be surprised if Taylor sniffs last year's numbers, but he will still have a role.

I still consider LaDainian Tomlinson fantasy's No. 1 RB, but Peterson is right behind him and could overtake him as soon as this year if the cards fall right for him.