Adam Thielen, the veteran wide receiver, has announced his retirement from football after a remarkable 13-year career. His decision came on a Wednesday, reflecting on a journey filled with blessings and gratitude.
Thielen’s Career Overview
The 35-year-old began his professional journey with the Minnesota Vikings in 2013. Initially signed as an undrafted free agent, he spent his rookie year on the practice squad. Over nine seasons with the Vikings, Thielen made a significant impact on the field.
- Years Active: 13 years
- Teams: Minnesota Vikings, Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Pro Bowl Selections: 2017, 2018
Accomplishments
During his time with the Vikings, Thielen achieved notable milestones, including:
- Two seasons with over 1,200 receiving yards
- A total of 704 receptions
- 8,497 receiving yards
- 64 touchdowns
Later Career Moves
In 2023, Thielen signed a three-year contract with the Carolina Panthers. However, he later requested a trade after the 2024 season, leading him back to Minnesota for a brief second stint. Ultimately, he sought to be waived by the Vikings in December, desiring a more significant role in his late career.
His football journey concluded with the Pittsburgh Steelers after their playoff defeat to the Houston Texans. For the 2024 season, he recorded 19 receptions for 186 yards.
Thielen’s Legacy
Thielen’s story is one of perseverance and success, shaped by strong relationships and mentorship. As he retires, fans and teammates alike will remember him not just for his statistics, but for his character and contributions to the game of football.
