The Minnesota Vikings are looking to get a new wide receiver. The first reports stated that they would seek a known face to reinforce JJ McCarthy‘s weaponry. However, latest reports just sent peace to the Carolina Panthers and Bryce Young.
NFL insider Josina Anderson posted that a trade between Vikings and Panthers for Adam Thielen is “not likely at this point.“ Thielen is part of a very promising wideout corp in Carolina that has veteran Hunter Remfrow, rookie Tet McMillan, and second-year Xavier Legette. Bryce Young will have plenty of help this season.
Thielen played for the Vikings during nine seasons before signing a three-year deal with Carolina. Minnesota is desperate for some wide receiver help as Jordan Addison is suspended, Jailen Nailor has a hand injury and Rondale Moore is out for the year. JJ McCarthy needs more weapons.
Thielen is a valuable weapon… regardless of the team
While it seems he will stay at the Panthers, any team would be better with Adam Thielen on its roster. He is a crisp route runner, has safe hands as he’s catched 75.9% of the passes thrown his way at Carolina. He has 1,000-yard potential if he stays healthy as well. He’s a receiver that any quarterback would love to have.
Adam Thielen #19 of the Carolina Panthers is introduced prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals.
While his production might dip a little due to the other receivers on the roster, he has developed good chemistry with Bryce Young and Dave Canales will surely design plays for him. In 2024, he played 10 games, racking up 615 yards with five touchdowns.
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What will the Vikings do?
As Thielen is pretty much discarded, the Vikings will now focus on another target. However, no blockbuster names should be available. It’s likely that they will seek a trade for a third option on a good team.
Among the names that might be available due to roster cuts, Romeo Doubs of the Green Bay Packers or Curtis Samuel of the Buffalo Bills are names that might entice Minnesota. While trading for them won’t be easy, one thing is clear: the Vikings can’t afford not getting a new receiver.
