Minnesota Vikings: 2 Franchise Legends Sign Retirement Deals With Teams

The Minnesota Vikings recently celebrated two franchise legends with one-day contracts. Receiver Adam Thielen and fullback CJ Ham returned to the team facility this week to sign one-day contracts, officially retiring as Vikings. Their shared journey from undrafted local hopefuls to franchise cornerstones represents a remarkable chapter in Minnesota sports history.

Minnesota Vikings WR Adam Thielen Retires

Adam Thielen’s path to NFL stardom reads like a sports movie script. A Minnesota native, Thielen played college football at Minnesota State University in Mankato—the exact campus where the Vikings historically held their training camps. In 2013, he received zero draft interest and lacked an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine. Instead, he earned his initial professional opportunity through an undrafted rookie tryout, relying entirely on his precise route running, reliable hands, and sheer determination.

By 2014, Thielen had secured a permanent roster spot. He made his initial impact on special teams, famously blocking a punt and returning it for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers. His role within the offense expanded steadily over the next two seasons. In 2016, he approached the 1,000-yard receiving mark, proving he belonged among the league’s top offensive targets.

The following season, Thielen earned a Pro Bowl selection and Second-Team All-Pro honors. He reached a historic peak in 2018 by starting the campaign with eight consecutive 100-yard receiving games, matching the legendary record established by Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson. Although he spent the twilight of his career with the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers to pursue a championship ring, Thielen’s legacy remains firmly rooted in Minnesota.

CJ Ham’s Blue-Collar Journey

Much like his teammate, CJ Ham forged a professional path defined by a relentless work ethic. Also a Minnesota native, Ham played Division II college football at Augustana in South Dakota. He went completely undrafted in 2016 but caught the attention of former Vikings assistant coach Kevin Stefanski during a local pro day workout at the University of Minnesota. Stefanski noted Ham’s intense focus and maximum effort during individual drills, which earned the young player an invitation to the Vikings’ rookie minicamp.

Ham originally arrived as a traditional running back but transitioned to fullback in 2017 under the guidance of running backs coach Kennedy Polamalu. When making the position change, Polamalu challenged Ham to commit to a 10-year career. Ham embraced the highly physical, unglamorous nature of the fullback position and successfully fulfilled that decade-long promise. Serving as the primary lead blocker, he paved the way for multiple highly productive rushing seasons for the Minnesota offense. He became an invaluable asset on the field and a deeply respected captain in the locker room, spending his entire 10-year professional tenure wearing purple and gold.

The Significance of Retiring in Purple

The decision by both players to sign one-day retirement contracts carries profound significance for the franchise and its fanbase. In an era characterized by heavy player movement and an immense focus on first-round draft capital, Thielen and Ham represent the ultimate success stories of perseverance. They entered the league as absolute longshots and transformed themselves into key pieces of competitive playoff rosters.

Retiring as Vikings serves as a fitting conclusion for two Minnesota natives who gave their best professional years to their home-state team. Their careers stand as a powerful reminder to every undrafted rookie that talent, preparation, and relentless effort can overcome a lack of draft pedigree. Adam Thielen and CJ Ham leave behind a legacy of excellence, officially securing their status as Vikings for life.