Steelers Now
Former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Adam Thielen is one of three finalists for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. The award will be presented as part of ESPN’s 12th annual Sports Humanitarian Awards on July 14 as part of ESPYS week.
Buffalo Bills safety and Pittsburgh native Damar Hamlin and four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors are the two other finalists for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award.
The Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award is given to an athlete whose continuous, demonstrated leadership has created a measured positive impact on their community through sports. The candidate must embrace the core principles that Muhammad Ali embodied so well, including confidence, conviction, dedication, giving and respect.
According to ESPN’s press release announcing this year’s finalists, Thielen has made youth mental health and wellness the cornerstone of his philanthropic mission at the Thielen Foundation. Founded in 2018 alongside his wife Caitlin, the foundation is dedicated to removing economic, social and emotional barriers for young people by investing in mental health resources, youth sports access, education and community wellness initiatives.
“Thielen has demonstrated a sustained commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for children and families across underserved communities. To date, the Thielen Foundation has invested more than $4.6 million in nonprofit organizations and programs focused on improving youth wellness and expanding access to sports and education,” the release stated. “The foundation’s impact includes supporting behavioral health programming and therapeutic spaces at University of Minnesota M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital, funding athletic facility upgrades and scholarships at Brooklyn Center High School, and restoring community gathering spaces that help bring young people together through sport. Beyond philanthropy, Thielen consistently supports community initiatives firsthand, whether by dedicating his time to mentoring youth or visiting hospitals. A two-time Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee, Thielen continues to use his platform to advocate for resilience and long-term opportunity for the next generation.”
Thielen announced his retirement from the NFL in January. Thielen revealed the news in an Instagram post.
“What a ride it has been!” Thielen’s wrote. “13 years what a blessing! Have been blessed with so many great relationships and mentors over the years that I am forever grateful for! Thank you to everyone who has supported me through the years, it has meant everything to my family and I!”
Thielen wanted to finish his last go-round with a contending crew. In six games with the Steelers, he recorded 11 receptions for 117 yards (10.6). His biggest play came in the Steelers’ Week 18 win over the Baltimore Ravens, catching a 28-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers down the seam.
The Steelers claimed Thielen off waivers from the Minnesota Vikings on Dec. 2. He served as the Steelers’ No. 2 wide receiver down the stretch.
Thielen’s wife, Caitlin, revealed in an Instagram post that her husband’s request to be released by the Vikings was more about playing time than winning. The Vikings used Thielen sparingly. In 11 games, he made...
