Adrian Peterson loses appeal

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson lost his appeal of a suspension for violating terms of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, the league announced Friday.

Peterson was seeking reinstatement after being suspended by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell last month after pleading no contest to misdemeanor wreckless assault for spanking his 4-year old son with a switch. Goodell suspended Peterson through April 15, but Peterson and the NFL Player’s Association appealed for instant reinstatement.

Peterson now must wait until April 15 to apply for reinstatement, at which point the league will once again review his conduct and make a determination.

The decision, issued by arbitrator Harold Henderson, is being contested by the players' union, which issued a statement immediately after the ruling that said, "The NFLPA expected expected this outcome, given the hearing officer's relationship and financial ties to the NFL. The decision itself ignores the facts, the evidence and the collective bargaining agreement. This decision also represents the NFL's repeated failure to adhere to due process and confirms its inconsistent treatment of players.

"Our union is considering immediate legal remedies."

Peterson hoped to return to the field after reaching a plea agreement and pleading no-contest in a Texas court in Novemeber. The appeal denial upheld the NFL's six-game suspension that carries through the remainder of this season.

The financial ramifcations: Peterson will lose his final three game checks in 2014. ESPN's Chris Mortensen tweeted: