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Steelers Claim Adam Thielen Off Waivers After Vikings Release Veteran Receiver

He sought a larger role in his final NFL season following a quiet return to Minnesota.

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Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) warms up before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Sep 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) enters the field before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Minnesota waived Thielen on Dec. 1 at his request, with the team citing respect and his desire for more playing time.
  • In 11 games of his second stint with the Vikings, he logged eight receptions for 69 yards and was a healthy scratch in the 26-0 loss to Seattle.
  • The Vikings had reacquired him from Carolina in late August in a mid-round pick swap and absorbed roughly $5 million in salary.
  • Because the move came during the season, Thielen was subject to waivers rather than becoming a free agent, and Pittsburgh was awarded the claim, per NFL Media.
  • Thielen, a two-time Pro Bowler who plans to retire after this season and eventually as a Viking, leaves a 4-8 team that has cycled quarterbacks and struggled offensively.