Adam Thielen Released by Vikings After Quiet Return Season: What’s Next for the Veteran WR?
When the Minnesota Vikings brought Adam Thielen back this offseason, there was a sense of storybook symmetry in the air. The veteran wideout was returning to the franchise where he built his name, this time in a mentorship role alongside rookie quarterback J.J.
McCarthy. On paper, it looked like the perfect mix of experience and youth-one that could help stabilize a transitioning offense.
But as of Monday, that chapter has officially closed.
The Vikings announced they’ve released Thielen, ending what turned out to be a short and underwhelming reunion. Thielen confirmed the news himself, posting on social media and thanking the organization and fans.
A Quiet Return That Never Took Off
Thielen’s return to Minnesota was supposed to be more than ceremonial. After two productive seasons in Carolina, he came back to the Twin Cities expected to be a reliable target and locker room leader-especially for McCarthy, who’s been navigating the highs and lows of his first NFL season.
But the production never matched the expectations. In 11 games, Thielen managed just 8 receptions for 69 yards and didn’t find the end zone once.
His most active outing came in Week 2, when he posted 26 yards on two catches. From there, his role diminished rapidly.
Over the final three games of his stint, he was targeted sparingly and caught only one pass.
Whether it was a mismatch in scheme, a lack of chemistry with McCarthy, or simply the reality of Father Time catching up, it became clear the Vikings were moving in a different direction. And Thielen, still hungry for a more significant role, became the odd man out.
What’s Next for Thielen?
The 12-year veteran isn’t done yet. By all indications, Thielen still believes he can contribute-and he might not be wrong.
Even with limited production this season, his track record speaks volumes. He’s a route technician, a reliable possession receiver, and a respected leader in any locker room he walks into.
A reunion with the Carolina Panthers could be a logical next step. He was a steady presence there over the last two seasons, both on the field and in the locker room. With Carolina still developing its young core, bringing Thielen back for a late-season stretch could offer stability and leadership.
Outside of Carolina, two other teams stand out as potential fits: the Buffalo Bills and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Both squads have been hit hard by injuries at the wide receiver position and could use a veteran presence down the stretch.
For a playoff contender like Buffalo, Thielen could slide in as a reliable third-down option or red-zone target. In Tampa, he could offer support to a young receiving corps still trying to find its rhythm.
Final Thoughts
Thielen’s return to Minnesota didn’t go the way anyone hoped, but it doesn’t have to be the end of his story. There’s still a place in the league for a savvy veteran who knows how to get open and move the chains. The question now is whether a playoff team sees the value in what he brings-and whether Thielen gets one more shot to remind everyone why he was one of the most consistent receivers of the past decade.
The next few weeks will tell us a lot. But don’t be surprised if we see No. 19 suiting up again before this season is over.