One of the most reliable wide receivers of his generation is stepping away. Adam Thielen announced his retirement Wednesday, closing the book on a 12-season NFL career.
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Thielen, who finished this past season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, shared the news in an Instagram post.
"What a ride it has been," Thielen wrote. "Thirteen years, what a blessing. I've been blessed with so many great relationships and mentors over the years that I'm forever grateful for. Thank you to everyone who has supported me through the years. It has meant everything to my family and me."
Thielen had already hinted this would be the end after he was waived by the Minnesota Vikings on Dec. 1, and he did not change course after joining Pittsburgh and reaching the postseason.
An undrafted free agent out of Minnesota State in 2013, Thielen turned himself into one of the league's most dependable pass catchers. He finishes his career with 704 receptions for 8,497 yards and 64 touchdowns.
His prime years came from 2016-2022, when he averaged more than 73 catches, 900 yards, and nearly eight touchdowns per season. That run included two Pro Bowl selections and cemented his status as a Vikings standout.
Thielen spent the final stretch of his career bouncing between the Carolina Panthers, Vikings, and Steelers. In Pittsburgh, he caught 11 passes for 117 yards over five games, helping the Steelers win the AFC North before their wild-card loss to the Texans.
From undrafted long shot to model of consistency, Thielen leaves the game with little left to prove.
