The Minnesota Vikings released veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen on Monday after he requested a larger role in what he says is his final NFL season. Thielen, a longtime fan favorite, had been a healthy inactive during the team's Week 13 shutout loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The 35-year-old now seeks to join a contender for the remainder of the year.
Adam Thielen's reunion with the Minnesota Vikings lasted just three months. Acquired in a preseason trade from the Carolina Panthers, Thielen appeared in 11 games for the Vikings, recording eight catches for 69 yards on 18 targets with no touchdowns. The trade saw Minnesota send a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 fourth-round pick to Carolina in exchange for Thielen, a 2026 conditional seventh-round pick, and a 2027 fifth-round pick. The move was prompted by injuries to Justin Jefferson and Jalen Nailor, plus Jordan Addison's suspension.
Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah issued a statement confirming the release: "Last week Adam's representation approached the team and asked if we would be willing to release Adam, expressing his desire to play a bigger role in the remaining weeks of what he has indicated will be his final NFL season. Following discussions through the weekend and out of respect for Adam, we have agreed to give him the opportunity to pursue more playing time elsewhere. Adam is one of the all-time great Vikings, and we wish him and his family continued success."
Thielen, a Minnesota native who joined the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2013, ranks fourth in franchise history with 542 receptions, fifth with 6,751 receiving yards, and third with 55 receiving touchdowns over nine seasons. He earned two Pro Bowl selections before signing with the Panthers in 2023.
The release came after Thielen was a healthy scratch in the Vikings' 4-8 team's shutout loss to the Seahawks in Week 13, a game started by third-string quarterback Max Brosmer while J.J. McCarthy recovered from a concussion.
Thielen posted on social media: "Skol," affirming his intent to compete elsewhere in his final season. Potential landing spots include the Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and Pittsburgh Steelers, where his veteran presence could bolster contending teams.
