The Minnesota Vikings have reacquired wide receiver Adam Thielen from the Carolina Panthers, marking a significant boost for the team’s offense. The 35-year-old Thielen is set to join the Vikings for another season, bringing experience and production to a wide receiver group dealing with injuries.
In exchange, the Vikings sent a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to the Panthers. The deal also involved the Vikings trading cornerback Mekhi Blackmon to the Colts on Monday night, along with quarterback Sam Howell to the Eagles on Sunday, and defensive tackle Harrison Phillips to the Jets last Wednesday.
Thielen has a base salary of $6.25 million this season but is expected to have his contract restructured by the Vikings. The team had nearly $30 million in cap space available before the trade, ensuring they can absorb Thielen’s salary without significant impact on their overall budget.
The return of Thielen addresses concerns about the team’s wide receiver depth, particularly with Jordan Addison suspended for three games and Jalen Nailor potentially missing time due to a hand injury. Justin Jefferson is also still recovering from a left hamstring strain.
Thielen’s wife celebrated the family’s return to Minnesota on social media, expressing excitement about their homecoming. With Thielen back in the fold, the Vikings have bolstered their offense ahead of the new season.
Source: https://www.startribune.com/adam-thielen-returns-to-the-vikings-in-a-trade-with-the-panthers/601459813