Introduction
Adam Thielen — a name once synonymous with consistency and clutch plays for the Minnesota Vikings — recently found himself back in headlines for very different reasons. After being reacquired by the Vikings in a trade earlier this season, Thielen has now been waived. This has stirred speculation: is it a cut because of performance? A mutual release driven by lack of playing time? Or a strategic move to give Thielen a chance at a contender like Buffalo Bills? In this article, we unpack the full story — from his re-signing to release, rumor status, possible destinations, and what this means for both Thielen and the teams involved.
Background: Thielen’s Journey to 2025
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Thielen began his NFL career with the Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2013. Over nearly a decade, he became one of the team’s most reliable receivers.
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However, after the 2022 season, Minnesota released him to create salary-cap space.
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In March 2023, he signed a three-year contract with the Carolina Panthers. His 2023 season with Carolina was strong: 103 catches, 1,014 receiving yards, and four touchdowns — marking his first 1,000-yard campaign since 2018.
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In the 2024 season, injuries and reduced output followed; he played only ten games, finishing with 48 catches for 615 yards and five touchdowns.
Given his history — proven performance, veteran leadership, and familiarity with the system — the Vikings decided to bring him back in 2025. In late August, they reacquired him from the Panthers in exchange for draft picks.
What Happened in 2025: From Return to Release
Reacquisition via Trade
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The trade, finalized August 27, 2025, saw the Vikings send a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 fourth-round pick to the Panthers. In return, Minnesota received Thielen along with a 2026 seventh-rounder and a 2027 fifth-rounder.
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Thielen reportedly even took a pay cut to facilitate his return — a gesture that highlighted his desire to finish his career as a Viking.
Disappointing Season & Reduced Role
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Throughout the 2025 campaign, his snap count and targets remained minimal. In 11 games, Thielen registered just eight catches for 69 yards and no touchdowns.
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He found himself behind younger receivers — Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor — on the depth chart, limiting his opportunities.
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The situation culminated in a Week 13 loss in which Thielen was a healthy scratch.
The Release
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On December 1, 2025, the Vikings officially waived Thielen. The team statement revealed his representation had requested the release, citing Thielen’s desire for a bigger role during what he indicated would be his final NFL season.
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With the release, Thielen becomes a free agent — provided he clears waivers — and is free to sign with any team for the remainder of the season and playoffs.
Rumors & Trade Speculations: Where Could Thielen Land?
Now that Thielen is off the Vikings’ roster, speculation about his next destination is at a fever pitch. Several contenders have reportedly emerged.
Top Contenders
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Buffalo Bills: Among the teams listed as top fits for Thielen due to their need for experienced receiving options late in the season.
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Other teams considering him: while not yet majorly publicized, the potential exists for squads chasing postseason success to give him a look as a low-risk veteran.
Why Some Teams Could Pass
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Thielen is 35 — physically past his prime.
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His 2025 production (8 catches, 69 yards) raises questions about his ability to contribute meaningfully ahead of playoff-caliber receivers.
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Learning a new offense midseason might pose a challenge, limiting his appeal to only those teams needing depth at WR3/WR4.
What It Means — For Thielen, Vikings & the NFL Landscape
For Adam Thielen
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The release could be a last-ditch attempt to find more football before retirement. Several outlets suggest this season will be his final one.
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If he lands on a playoff contender and carves out a role, he could still end his career on a high note — something that might matter more than stats or legacy.
For the Vikings
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Cutting ties with Thielen allows the Vikings to give more reps to younger receivers and evaluate their future at the position.
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The decision signals a shift towards youth and rebuilding rather than relying on veteran nostalgia.
For the NFL & Potential Suitors
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For playoff-bound teams needing experienced depth at WR — especially with injuries — Thielen becomes a potential “low-risk, high-upside” pickup.
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His midseason availability could shake up receiver depth charts and offer a safety valve for teams worried about late-season attrition.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Did the Vikings cut Adam Thielen?
A: Yes. On December 1, 2025, the Minnesota Vikings waived Thielen after granting his request for release, allowing him to pursue more playing time elsewhere.
Q: Why did they release him? Performance or mutual agreement?
A: It was a mutual decision. Thielen’s representation asked for the release, citing his desire for a larger role in what he intends to be his final NFL season.
Q: Was Thielen traded to the Buffalo Bills?
A: Not yet. As of now, there is no confirmed trade. However, the Bills are among the teams listed as a strong possible landing spot for Thielen.
Q: What are his 2025 stats with the Vikings?
A: In 2025, Thielen played 11 games for Minnesota, catching 8 passes for 69 yards and no touchdowns.
Q: Is this the end of his career?
A: Thielen has hinted that 2025 will be his final season. If he doesn’t sign with another team or if he doesn’t gain significant playing time, this could mark the end of his NFL career. Adam Thielen.
Conclusion
Adam Thielen’s journey through the 2025 NFL season has been a rollercoaster — from a nostalgic reunion with the Vikings to an abrupt release after limited usage. While the move marks the end of his second stint in Minnesota, it doesn’t necessarily spell the end of his career. With the playoffs looming and contenders looking for veteran depth, a fit with the Buffalo Bills or another team remains possible. For Thielen, this final chapter could still offer one last shot at postseason glory — if the right opportunity arises.
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