5 former Vikings who have thrived with other NFL teams in 2023

Former Viking No. 2

Adam Thielen - WR (Carolina Panthers)

Adam Thielen is a man who needs no introduction to Vikings fans. Thielen very well could find his name in Minnesota's Ring of Honor one day, as his gaudy stats and incredible story make it hard to argue against him eventually receiving that honor.

Thielen found his way to the Carolina Panthers this past offseason after being released by the Vikings, and this year, he proved that he's not done just yet.

With the Panthers, he's produced a stellar stat line this season, with 101 receptions, 1,002 yards, and four touchdowns heading into Week 18.

Thielen can add to those marks with Carolina's 17th and final game of the regular season on the horizon, but his numbers still look great even as they stand after 16 matchups.

While the Panthers season has been as abysmal as it gets, Thielen has been a solid contributor all year for them, and there is no doubt that Minnesota fans everywhere are proud of the performance he's had in 2023.

While Thielen had a great year, it's still hard to argue against him being released by the Vikings last March.

His expensive contract and injury concerns were significant enough reasons for Minnesota to justify cutting him, though it was definitely a hard goodbye for everyone.

Still, congrats to Thielen on a great 2023 season with Carolina, even though he will always be a Viking, no matter where he goes.