“Great 35th birthday present”: Minnesota Vikings express interest in reacquiring their former wide receiver Adam Thielen

August 22 marks the 35th birthday of wide receiver Adam Thielen . He played nine seasons for the Minnesota Vikings . He even played college football for the Minnesota State Mavericks. August 22 also marks the day that the Vikings reportedly expressed interest in reacquiring their former wideout from the Carolina Panthers . According to NFL Insider Adam Schefter on X(formerly Twitter), the Vikings inquired about a trade for Panthers WR Adam Thielen(as per league sources). This news generated enthusiasm among Vikings fans, with some commenting, “Vikings need Thielen back.” Another playfully suggested, “I can think of a great 35th birthday present for this guy 😈.”

Vikings have inquired about trading for Panthers WR Adam Thielen, per league sources.

With WR Jordan Addison serving a three-game suspension and Jalen Nailor dealing with a hand injury, Thielen could wind up starting opening night for the Vikings if they can complete the trade. pic.twitter.com/ep7lrSbYo2

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 22, 2025

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen could reunite with his former team Minnesota VikingsThe Minnesota Vikings signed Adam Thielen in 2013 after going undrafted from the Division II Minnesota State University in Mankato. The two-time Pro Bowler played nine of his eleven seasons for the Vikings. The other two were played with the Carolina Panthers. NFL Insider Adam Schefter also reported the reasons behind the Vikings’ interest in reacquiring Thielen:

• Wide receiver Jordan Addison is currently serving suspension for three games.
• Wideout Jalen Nailor is dealing with a hand injury.
• WR Adam Thielen could potentially start on opening night, September 9, against the Chicago Bears.

Adam Thielen is returning to the #Vikings #Skol #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/bR4NVUX7kj

— Rickey (@RickeyScoops) August 22, 2025

Fans want Adam Thielen to come back home(Minnesota Vikings)Many fans expressed their enthusiasm on hearing about Adam Thielen’s return. One fan said, “I mean why not bring him home 🤷🏾‍♂️.” Another chimed in, “Vikings exploring Thielen makes sense with Addison out and Nailor injured. Could be a game-changer if the trade goes through before opening night.” A third fan exclaimed, “BRING HIM THE F*CK HOMEEEEE.”
A fourth fan noticed a trend, stating, “Big fan of the trend of WRs reuniting with their old teams 🏈.” A fifth fan shared some interesting facts about the wideout: “For those who don’t know. Thielen actually grew up in Detroit Lakes MN and went to D2 Minnesota Mankato. He has ties to the region.”

A fan jotted down all the reasons why Thielen was perfect for the Vikings: “Thielen might not be in his prime, but his experience, leadership, reliable hands, route-running skills, familiarity with the system, and red-zone effectiveness would all be valuable assets for the Vikings, especially considering their current needs at the receiver position.”
When all the fans seemed excited for Adam Thielen’s return to his parent team, one fan questioned the reason behind the Panthers’ trade: “Why would the Panthers do that when they’re trying to be a half decent team this year?” Another fan predicted Thielen’s retirement, “he’s gonna retire this year. bookmark it Adam.”

I told Coach Kevin O'Connell that I'd like the Vikings to bring back Adam Thielen.

What is that smile?! 👀 #skol pic.twitter.com/tQjDGcnNYe

— Kay Adams (@heykayadams) August 20, 2025

Adam Thielen stats

• Receptions: 685
• Receiving yards: 8,311
• Receiving touchdowns: 64
• Pass targets: 975
• Receiving yards per reception: 12.1
• Games played: 162
• Games started: 128
• Receiving success rate: 56.6
• Total seasons: 11

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