Adrian Peterson's suspension upheld, will not return this season

The verdict squashed any slim chance that Peterson might suit up again in 2014, after the NFL sanctioned him after he pleaded 'no contest' to child abuse charges.

"I conclude that the player has not demonstrated that the process and procedures surrounding his discipline were not fair and consistent," Harold Henderson, the arbitrator assigned to the case, said in a statement.

"He was afforded all the protections and rights to which he is entitled, and I find no basis to vacate or reduce the discipline."

Peterson has missed all but one game this season after he was accused of disciplining his four-year-old son in May at his home in Spring, Texas.

He was initially charged with one felony count of reckless or negligent injury to a child.

Peterson resolved those charges in early November by agreeing to a plea deal.

Peterson won't be eligible to play again until at least April 15, 2015, when he can apply for reinstatement.

Once reinstated, he may face an additional suspension.