Vikings RB Adrian Peterson played at 217 pounds last season, but he wants to gain weight for 2009. (Photo by Stephen Dunn / Getty Images)

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson is looking to gain some weight for the 2009 season. But don’t worry, he doesn’t plan to emulate Yankees pitcher C.C. Sabathia, who looks like he spent his bonus check on Shakey’s Bunch A Lunch.

Peterson would like to weigh between 225 and 230 pounds next season, according to The Associated Press, up from his listed playing weight of 217. Peterson wants to put on “good” weight to help him better withstand the pounding that an NFL running back takes.

It’s good that Peterson is taking his role as the undisputed No. 1 fantasy pick so seriously. More players should have this kind of dedication.

And to be honest, there are still some trust issues with Peterson’s health. Sure, he started 15 games last season, but there’s always that lingering doubt. So it’s nice that he’s being proactive and willing to do whatever it takes to make it through an entire season.

• Eagles RB Brian Westbrook told the team’s Web site that he’s looking forward to playing football pain free in 2009. That’s great, but Westbrook is no longer a top-five fantasy pick — especially if the Eagles draft a running back early, as expected. Still, you have to love Westbrook at the end of the first round.

• Orlando Pace is lobbying the Bears to go after Torry Holt, The Chicago Tribune reports, even though the wide receiver’s agent recently said the team wasn’t an option. But after looking at the Titans and Jaguars are possible landing spots for Holt, fantasy footballers wouldn’t mind him catching passes from new Bears QB Jay Cutler next season.

• WR Miles Austin is being courted by the Cowboys and Jets. Austin could see his value rise significantly if he locks up the No. 2 receiver spot with the Cowboys. He’d be in fantasy Siberia if he went with the Jets. Maybe Austin should ask Jason Taylor if he should play with the Jets.

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