Adam Thielen, Vikings Part Ways as Veteran WR Eyes One Last Playoff Push
After more than a decade in purple and gold, Adam Thielen’s time with the Minnesota Vikings has officially come to a close-again. On Monday, the Vikings released the veteran wide receiver at his own request, giving the 35-year-old a chance to chase one final postseason run before calling it a career.
Thielen and the team announced the move on social media, confirming what many had suspected: this season will be his last in the NFL. And with Minnesota sitting at 4-8 after a rough loss to the Seahawks, the veteran wideout is looking for a more competitive situation to close out his career.
The decision wasn’t a surprise, but it still hits with some emotional weight. Thielen isn’t just another player moving on-he’s a Minnesota native who rose from undrafted free agent to Pro Bowl receiver, becoming one of the most beloved figures in franchise history. Now, he's hoping to finish his journey on a team with something left to play for in December and (possibly) January.
Vikings' Season Spiraling, Thielen Watching from the Sidelines
The Vikings’ 26-0 shutout loss to Seattle on Sunday was a low point in a season that’s been full of them. The offense sputtered, the defense couldn’t hold, and the game featured a moment that could easily go down as one of the most baffling plays of the year-maybe even the decade.
Rookie quarterback Max Brosmer, under pressure and scrambling, made a split-second decision he’ll be seeing in his nightmares for a while. Instead of taking the sack, he attempted a desperation pitch that landed directly in the hands of a Seahawks defender, who took it to the house for six. It was the kind of play that turns from bad to worse in the blink of an eye-and perfectly encapsulated the current state of the Vikings’ season.
To add to the confusion, Thielen was inactive for the game-not due to injury, but due to what head coach Kevin O’Connell called a “coach’s decision.” O’Connell explained the move postgame, saying the team needed depth at other positions where players were banged up, and that the wide receiver room had remained relatively healthy throughout the season.
That decision, paired with Thielen’s limited role in 2025-just eight catches for 69 yards through 11 games-likely helped accelerate Monday’s mutual parting.
Thielen’s Legacy in Minnesota
It’s hard to overstate what Adam Thielen has meant to the Vikings. From his improbable rise out of Minnesota State to becoming a two-time Pro Bowler and fan favorite, Thielen has been a constant in the Vikings’ locker room and on the field for over a decade. He’s made clutch catches, led by example, and brought a level of professionalism and consistency that’s rare in today’s NFL.
But even legends reach the end of the road. And with the Vikings unlikely to play meaningful football in the final weeks of the season, Thielen’s decision to seek a new opportunity makes sense. He’s not looking for a farewell tour-he’s looking to compete, contribute, and maybe, just maybe, help a playoff team down the stretch.
What’s Next?
For Minnesota, the focus shifts fully to the future. At 4-8, the playoffs are a long shot, and the team is clearly in evaluation mode.
For Thielen, the next few days will be critical. He’ll hit waivers, and any team looking to add a veteran presence with playoff experience could come calling.
Thielen may not be the same explosive threat he once was, but he’s still a savvy route-runner, a reliable set of hands, and a locker room leader. For a contender needing depth at receiver-or simply someone who’s been there before-he could be a valuable late-season addition.
As for Vikings fans, this goodbye is bittersweet. Adam Thielen gave everything he had to the franchise and the state.
Now, he gets one last shot to chase a ring. And wherever he lands, you can bet Minnesota will be watching-and rooting for No. 19 one last time.