Is Now the Time for a Vikings Reunion?
The Minnesota Vikings ripped off a bunch of wins last season, putting them in a position to make meaningful moves at the trade deadline. One such idea floating around was a reunion with wide receiver Adam Thielen.
Is Now the Time for a Vikings Reunion?
Of course, that never came to fruition. The Vikings ultimately never added a wide receiver, and Thielen was hurt before returning for the Carolina Panthers. This offseason, though, it’s something they could consider.
If the Panthers were inclined to part with the aging veteran last season, they could move on from him this offseason. He carries an $8 million cap hit but has just over $5 million in dead cap dollars. The Panthers could turn the roster spot over to younger talent, and Thielen could look for work elsewhere.
Obviously, the Vikings don’t need Thielen as much, as it would be great for him to want Minnesota. Justin Jefferson isn’t going anywhere and is entrenched as the top wideout on the team as well as the league. Behind him, Jordan Addison has proven to be a worthy number two and will again stretch opposing defenses.
The role for Thielen could be two-fold. He is no longer a quick or speedy option, but his crisp route running and sure hands would serve Kevin O’Connell’s offense well as the third option. Jalen Nailor held that role down after K.J. Osborn left in free agency. He left something to be desired at times, however. Sure-handedness was not always Nailor’s calling card. Theilen may be able to help push and elevate his development.
Beyond that, though, the Vikings should expect Addison’s suspension at some point. He is still working through the legal trouble stemming from his DUI last summer, but at some point, the NFL will make a ruling as to his punishment. Thielen gives the Minnesota offense another threat during that period.
Thielen may prefer an opportunity to finish the storybook at this stage of his career rather than seeking another payday. Rounding out what may be one of his final seasons back at home would be a pretty cool outcome.
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Ted Schwerzler is a blogger from the Twin Cities that is focused on all things Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Vikings. He’s active on Twitter and writes daily for Minnesota Sports Fan. As a former college athlete and avid sports fan, covering our pro teams with a passion has always seemed like such a natural outlet.
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