Overview

• Carolina sent Thielen, a conditional 2026 seventh-rounder and a 2027 fifth to Minnesota for a 2026 fifth and a 2027 fourth, completing the veteran’s return.
• Minnesota pursued the deal with Jordan Addison suspended three games and Jalen Nailor sidelined by a hand injury, seeking a reliable target alongside Justin Jefferson.
• Thielen, 35, said he learned of the trade only a day earlier and called the homecoming surreal after two seasons in Carolina.
• Team officials said Thielen already understands Kevin O’Connell’s system and has worked with McCarthy, positioning him for an immediate role.
• Panthers leadership framed the trade as a confidence play in young receivers Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker, as Thielen publicly praised Bryce Young’s growth.