Adam Thielen has officially announced his retirement from the NFL after an impressive 13-season career that included stints with the Minnesota Vikings, Carolina Panthers, and most recently, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The veteran wide receiver took to Instagram on Wednesday to reflect on his journey in professional football, highlighting the relationships and mentorship he garnered throughout his career.
“What a ride it has been! 13 years what a blessing!” Thielen wrote. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters who stood by him and his family over the years, emphasizing how much it has meant to them.
Thielen emerged as a major force in the NFL, beginning his career as an undrafted rookie out of Minnesota State. He quickly became a beloved player for the Vikings, where he earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and tallied 542 receptions for 6,751 yards and 55 touchdowns over 146 games. His standout moment came in 2018 when he recorded an impressive 113 catches for 1,373 yards and nine touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top receivers. He also received a second-team All-Pro accolade in 2017, further marking his contributions to the game.
In recent years, Thielen signed with the Panthers as a free agent and contributed significantly, finishing his time there with 151 receptions, 1,629 yards, and nine touchdowns across 27 games. He then returned to the Vikings ahead of the 2023 season before seeking a waiver, which led him to the Steelers. During his brief time in Pittsburgh, Thielen played five games and made notable contributions, particularly as a reliable blocker, showcasing his ability to fit seamlessly into the offense.
Despite having limited catches—just 11 receptions for 117 yards—Thielen made impactful plays, including a crucial 28-yard catch in the regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens and a 21-yard catch in the playoff loss to the Houston Texans, marking them as poignant moments in his final games.
As Thielen transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy as a hardworking player who rose from humble beginnings to achieve great success, illustrating the value of determination and resilience in professional sports. He looks forward to dedicating more time to his family, leaving the game on his own terms after a remarkable journey in the NFL.