Adrian Peterson's 2-Year-Old Son Dies From Alleged Assault

Sad news for Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson, who's 2-year-old son died from allegedly being assaulted.

ESPN is reporting Joseph Patterson, the man who was caring for the boy, has been arrested and charged with aggravated battery and aggravated assault.

The child had been in critical condition at a hospital in South Dakota.

Peterson had said earlier today he will play in Sunday's game, telling reporters 'I really appreciate all the support from fans and the Vikings. I ask y'all to respect my privacy.'

God Bless everyone and thank u so much.
— Adrian Peterson (@AdrianPeterson) October 11, 2013

The NFL is a fraternity of brothers and I am thankful for the tweets, phone calls and text messages from my fellow players.
— Adrian Peterson (@AdrianPeterson) October 11, 2013

Patterson, who is the boyfriend of the child's mother, was home alone with the boy Wednesday when police were called.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Adrian Peterson and his family after such a tragedy. I can't imagine losing a child, especially at the hands of someone who was suppose to be caring for him. No adult should EVER hit a child. I hope the man rots in jail, or is put into public population where he'll get what he deserves.

Athletes, movie stars and fans are sending prayers on social media as well.

My heart is hurts for my friend @AdrianPeterson and his family.I ask that everyone keeps him and his family lifted up in prayer. #GodBlessAP
— Donald Driver (@Donald_Driver80) October 12, 2013

RIP to this little angel, prayers go out to @AdrianPeterson and his family pic.twitter.com/r5nkNKh8ZA
— KoBree Bryant (@LakerLovee) October 11, 2013

#RaiderNation is sending its prayers to Adrian Peterson and his family in this impossible to comprehend tragedy. pic.twitter.com/OpWdhnadHY
— Raider Nation (@TheOnlyNation) October 12, 2013

Prayers go out to @AdrianPeterson — Eric Gordon (@TheofficialEG10) October 11, 2013

My favorite player outside Buffalo, @adrianpeterson. Please know all Bills fans are praying for your son. pic.twitter.com/WRAjevxuGg
— Kevin O'Neill (@KevinBuffalo) October 11, 2013

Thoughts are with you and your family @AdrianPeterson
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) October 11, 2013

Prayers & condolences to @adrianpeterson and his family.
— Troy Aikman (@TroyAikman) October 11, 2013

Prayers of strength and peace go out to @adrianpeterson and his family.
— Doug Martin (@DougMartin22) October 11, 2013

I could not absolutely imagine what Adrian Peterson and his family is going through... Sending prayers to his family..
— Elliott Sadler (@Elliott_Sadler) October 11, 2013