Panthers trading Adam Thielen to Vikings

After days, maybe weeks of rumors, the Carolina Panthers have traded wide receiver Adam Thielen to the Minnesota Vikings. The Panthers are sending out a couple of late round picks with Thielen and in return are getting a fifth round pick next year and a fourth round pick the year after.

It’s sad to see Thielen go after he established himself as not washed and a reliable target for Bryce Young. He’s been far and away the Panthers’ best receiver in his two seasons here. However, Thielen was apparently interested in a homecoming after he grew up, went to college, and started his NFL career in Minnesota. The Vikings have been hunting for wide receiver help with Jordan Addison facing a suspension and very little depth behind he and Justin Jefferson.

As for the Panthers, Thielen’s departure clears up a little bit of space in a wide receiver room that’s become somewhat log jammed. Tetairoa McMillan should be able to take over the top wide receiver spot in Thielen’s absence while Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker should theoretically make for decent complements on the outside. This also opens up playing time for interesting young guys like Jimmy Horn Jr. and Brycen Tremayne in rotational roles.