Viking player Adam Thielen voluntarily decreased his salary by $2 million to re-sign with the team
Veteran Wide Receiver Adam Thielen Returns to Minnesota Vikings, Takes Pay Cut
After a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers, Minnesota native and former Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen is coming home. Thielen, aged 35, has taken a significant pay cut, reducing his salary to $7 million for the 2025 season, to rejoin the team he spent his first nine NFL seasons with.
The Vikings were eager to bring back Thielen, a player who ranks third all-time in receptions for the team, behind Hall of Fame wide receivers Cris Carter and Randy Moss. In his tenure with the Vikings, Thielen has tallied 534 catches for 6,682 yards and 55 touchdowns.
Thielen's decision to return was not just about the football. In a statement to reporters, he expressed his deep affection for Minnesota, the state, the city, the organization, ownership, coaches, and players. He credited the trust and belief shown by the team, particularly the quarterback, Bryce Young, as instrumental in his continued career in the NFL.
The Vikings were willing to part with a few draft picks to secure Thielen's services. They gave up a 2026 fifth-round pick, a 2027 fourth-round selection, a conditional seventh-round pick in 2026, and a fifth-round pick in 2027. However, they refused to pay a portion of Thielen's salary, as reported by ESPN.
Thielen's return to the Vikings was finalized on Wednesday, as reported by ESPN on Saturday. The timing is strategic, as the Vikings are scheduled to open the 2025 season against their rival, the Chicago Bears, on "Monday Night Football" on Sept. 8.
Upon his departure from the Panthers, Thielen expressed his gratitude towards Bryce Young, calling him a great man, a great leader, and a great quarterback. He also credited Young for helping him elongate his career.
Following the confirmation of the deal, Thielen expressed his excitement about returning to Minnesota and his family. He received a $1.5 million raise, bringing his salary for 2025 to $7 million.
Thielen's return is a boost for the Vikings, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024 season. With Thielen's experience and talent, the team hopes to regain their form and challenge for the playoffs in the 2025 season.
