Steelers reportedly acquire former Vikings WR Adam Thielen off waivers

The Pittsburgh Steelers have added former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen through the waiver system, according to several sources. Thielen requested his release from the Vikings earlier this week, which the team approved to allow him more playing time during the final chapter of his NFL career.

Now 35, Thielen spent 10 of his 12 NFL seasons with the Vikings, establishing himself as one of the franchise's most reliable players. During his peak, he was among the league's top receivers, earning Pro Bowl selections following the 2017 and 2018 seasons.

Before returning to Minnesota this year, Thielen played the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the Carolina Panthers. This season, his role with the Vikings was limited, recording just 8 receptions for 69 yards across 11 games for a team struggling after losing quarterback Sam Darnold in free agency.

Upon leaving Minnesota, Thielen expressed gratitude to the Vikings but noted his desire to "compete" elsewhere, signaling his hope to join a team with playoff aspirations.

The Steelers currently hold a 6-6 record, tied atop the AFC North with the Baltimore Ravens, who have won five of their last six games and hold the tiebreaker if the playoffs started today. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals sit at 4-8 despite Joe Burrow returning under center. Pittsburgh still controls its playoff destiny, including two remaining matchups against the Ravens.

Thielen will be entering a Steelers offense ranked 24th in passing yards per game, with 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. DK Metcalf, the team's top target, is averaging a career-low 50.4 yards per game in his first season with Pittsburgh after leaving Seattle. While Thielen may not dramatically change the offense, his veteran presence brings experience and leadership to a team striving to stay in playoff contention.

Author: Sophia Brooks