Overview

• The finalized trade sends Thielen, a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder to Minnesota for a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 fourth-rounder.
• Team officials and multiple outlets report the Vikings and Thielen are working to finalize a revised contract after the trade.
• Thielen is expected to play a prominent role early, likely as WR2 behind Justin Jefferson while Jordan Addison serves a three-game suspension and other receivers recover.
• Carolina dealt the 35-year-old after bolstering its younger receiver group with Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette and emergent undrafted rookie Jalen Coker.
• The Minnesota native returns with deep franchise ties and production — 534 catches, 6,682 yards and 55 touchdowns in nine Vikings seasons — and prior offseason work with quarterback J.J. McCarthy.