Why Minnesota Vikings cut Adam Thielen, allowing Pittsburgh Steelers to claim him originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have a new wide receiver for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAccording to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Steelers have claimed Thielen off waivers after he was cut loose by the Minnesota Vikings on Monday.
"Two-time Pro Bowl WR Adam Thielen was claimed off waivers by the Steelers, per source," Pelissero reported.
The addition of Thielen actually comes on Rodgers' 42nd birthday.
Why Vikings cut Adam Thielen
The Vikings released a statement upon cutting ties with Thielen, and it revealed that Thielen was looking for a team that could offer him a bigger role for the rest of what will be his final season in the NFL.
"Last week, Adam's representation approached the team and asked if we would be willing to release Adam, expressing his desire to play a bigger role in the remaining weeks of what he has indicated will be his final NFL season. Following discussions through the weekend and out of respect for Adam, we have agreed to give him the opportunity to pursue more playing time elsewhere," the statement said.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"Adam is one of the all-time great Vikings, and we wish him and his family continued success."
Thielen was stuck on the depth chart behind Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor, which led to him seeing 29% of snaps and tallying just eight catches.
Pelissero also noted that Thielen is looking for an opportunity to win.
"Thielen, 35, wanted one more shot at a Super Bowl in his final season and now lands with longtime NFC North rival Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh," he wrote.
Why Steelers claimed Adam Thielen
The Steelers have had a dire need at wide receiver dating back to 2024, so it's zero surprise they're taking a swing on Thielen.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe veteran would appear to not have much left in the tank given his lackluster production this season, but bear in mind he was not getting much playing time.
In 2024, Thielen showed he had plenty left in the tank after totaling 615 receiving yards in 10 games with the Carolina Panthers.
Thielen immediately becomes the Steelers' most accomplished wide receiver and he should play the No. 2 role behind DK Metcalf. This pushes Calvin Austin and Roman Wilson to roles more suitable for them.
More NFL News
J.J. McCarthy gets grim update on future with Minnesota Vikings
Raiders rookie's strong Week 13 performance makes Pete Carroll look bad
Cowboys' Jerry Jones deliver Trevon Diggs injury update for Week 14
Where Patriots sit in AFC East, playoff picture entering Week 14
Abdul Carter has 2-word explanation for benching vs. Patriots
Drake Maye's stat line during 10-game winning streak is unreal
