HOUSTON -- Although running back Adrian Peterson threw out the Houston Texans as a possible destination early in the offseason, a Texans team source said Houston was never interested.

According to the source, the interest was all generated by Peterson, and the team “never once talked about him.”

In late February, the Minnesota Vikings opted not to exercise the 2017 option on Peterson’s contract that would have paid him $18 million next season. In three games last year, Peterson ran for 72 yards on 37 attempts without a touchdown after injuring his knee early in the season.

Peterson is from Palestine, Texas, but Houston doesn’t really have a need at running back. The Texans signed running back Lamar Miller to a four-year, $26 million contract a year ago, and although he missed two games last season, Miller finished the year with 1,073 yards on 268 carries with five touchdowns. He also added 31 catches for 188 yards and a touchdown.

The Texans will likely have a competition to become Miller's backup during offseason workouts and training camp, but Houston already has Alfred Blue on the roster, who backed up Miller last season. Peterson will also command a salary more than the Texans are willing to pay a backup.