At one time, it looked like Adam Thielen would be with the Minnesota Vikings for his entire career. Sadly, the two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver exited the team after the 2022 NFL season and signed with the Carolina Panthers.
The 34-year-old pass catcher had a tough decision to make this offseason. He could return for the 2025 season or he could choose to call it a career after 12 seasons. He spent ten of those years with the Vikings where he still stands at No. 5 in the franchise's all-time receiving leaders at 6,682 yards.
Adam Thielen's two seasons with the Panthers have been productive despite questionable quarterback play. He provides an experienced target for a Carolina offense hoping to find its identity in the NFC South.
Former Minnesota Vikings WR Adam Thielen reveals if he’s already played his final snap in the NFL
In an exclusive article shared by Daily Mail UK, Adam Thielen shared that he plans to return in 2025. He is entering the final year of the three-year, $25 million deal he signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2023.
" I think I still have some more football in me. We'll see how that plays out in the next few weeks."Adam Thielen via Daily Mail UK
An undrafted free agent who signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2013, Thielen worked his way up the ranks of the Vikings by rising through the practice squad to join the special teams unit and eventually carving out a role on offense.
Thielen's 2024 season saw him miss time due to injury yet still increase his touchdown total from the previous season. The Detroit Lakes, Minnesota native has a nose for the end zone and is No. 3 all time in touchdown catches in Minnesota Vikings history behind only Cris Carter and Randy Moss.
Adam Thielen doesn't have anything left to prove in his career but he still has a desire to get some things done in Carolina.
"I think that's what has enticed me to want to play again is just the progression, the leadership, the type of things that they're doing to try to create a winning culture"Adam Thielen via Daily Mail UK
It's hard not to love Adam Thielen for what he's accomplished with the Minnesota Vikings and the work he does off the football field. Hopefully, he can have a great season and 2025 and continue to be one of the most reliable receivers in the NFL.