Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Adam Thielen Released by Vikings to Chase Final NFL Run on Contender

Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings granted Adam Thielen’s wish Monday, releasing the 35-year-old wide receiver so he can finish what he has declared will be his final NFL season on a contending team. Thielen, a healthy scratch for Sunday’s shutout loss in Seattle, becomes an unrestricted free agent immediately.

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A Classy Exit for Adam Thielen, a Vikings Legend

Theilen’s representatives approached GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah last week requesting his release, citing the desire for a bigger role in his farewell campaign. After weekend discussions, the Vikings obliged to his request.

“Out of respect for Adam, we have agreed to give him the opportunity to pursue more playing time elsewhere,” Adofo-Mensah said. “Adam is one of the all-time great Vikings.”

Adam Thielen also posted an emotional farewell on social media saying, “This team is in my bones… I will ALWAYS be a Minnesota Viking… I’ll be back to retire!”

#Skol https://t.co/PmpGmts9lr pic.twitter.com/AAZl4B0q6j
— Adam Thielen (@athielen19) December 1, 2025

Thielen’s Time in the NFL has Been a Pleasure to Watch

Re-acquired from Carolina in August for a fourth-and fifth-round pick when Jordan Addison was suspended and Jalen Nailor was hurt, Thielen’s second stint never took off. With the receiver room staying healthy, he managed only eight catches for 69 yards in limited snaps. The trade became a sunk cost, making Monday’s mutual parting the cleanest outcome.

Thielen leaves Minnesota third in franchise history in receiving touchdowns, fourth in receptions, and fifth in yards. His Ring of Honor induction is a formality. He is also a two-time Pro Bowler, and was named to All-Pro second team once in his career.

Contenders now have a proven veteran slot receiver available. Carolina, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and others could kick the tires on a short-term rental who still runs crisp routes and mentors young rooms. For Thielen, it’s one last chance to chase the ring that he hasn’t won in 12-year-long NFL career.

Adam Thielen

Minnesota Vikings

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Eric Divakaran

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I cover the National Football League and things cannot get better than that. I always dreamed to play football or basketball professionally since I’m built like a Running Back. But now that I can’t, since I’m technically in the “Unc” age, I thought why not pick a career in sports industry? So here I am, doing what I love, and hoping that the Commanders win the Super Bowl. I give love to players when it’s due, but can be critical about their performances at the same time. Enough about me, now let my articles do all the talking.