Jordan Addison suspension clears path for former Vikings great to shine

Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy has arguably the NFL's most explosive wide receiver at his disposal in All-Pro Justin Jefferson. But outside of the superstar Pro-Bowler, the Vikings' receiving corps looked incredibly thin just days before the 2025 season kicks off.

Minnesota amended that issue on Wednesday by bringing back a familiar face. The Vikings are signing wideout Adam Thielen just two years after releasing him to the Carolina Panthers, according to CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones.

At 35, the two-time Pro Bowler isn't the talent he once was. But even while suiting up for a putrid Panthers squad, Thielen was a bright spot. He surprisingly posted the third 1,000-yard campaign of his career in his first year with Carolina and still managed 615 yards in just 10 games in 2024.

Thielen won't be returning to a premium role in Minnesota, but he'll bring valuable production and experience to a receiver room that desperately needs it. Especially early in the season, Thielen's contributions will be crucial to the Vikings' success and their new signal-caller.

While Thielen may not be lining up as Minnesota's No. 2 receiver all season, that's likely the role he'll fill at least until the return of Jordan Addison. 

The third-year receiver is suspended for the first three contests of the new season after violating the league's substance abuse policy, which created an immediate need for productive reinforcements. Even in the twilight of his career, Thielen has proven to be just that.

While Minnesota's injury woes and off-field issues have thinned out the team's depth, Thielen and Jefferson won't be left to fend for themselves. Tight end T.J. Hockenson should also see an elevated role in the passing game as the franchise figures out its new-look offense.

The Vikings filled an obvious need with a beloved player who already knows both the city and the team. Thielen likely won't sniff the career-best 1,373 yards he posted with Minnesota in 2018, but he's a welcome and sensible addition to help usher in a new era of Vikings football.