Peterson's appeal denied

Minneapolis - An arbiter appointed by the NFL to hear Adrian Peterson's appeal has ruled that the Minnesota Vikings running back will remain suspended until at least next spring.

The decision by Harold Henderson, a former league official, was announced on Friday.

is ruling upheld the NFL's decision last month to suspend Peterson without pay for the remainder of the season and not consider him for reinstatement until April 15.

The NFL Players Association balked at the punishment. Peterson was charged with felony child abuse in September for using a wooden switch to discipline his son, but he pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless assault in November.

He had been on paid leave while his case moved through the court system.