The NFL's Minnesota Vikings announced on Tuesday their decision to release wide receiver Adam Thielen, after nine seasons with the team. Thielen signed as an undrafted free agent in 2013, and quickly made a name for himself on the team, eventually earning two Pro Bowl nods in 2017 and 2018. However, he struggled with injuries in recent seasons, which likely contributed to the team's decision to let him go.
Thielen's release is a significant loss for the Vikings, as he has been one of the team's most consistent and reliable players over the past decade. His departure will leave a void in the Vikings' receiving corps, and it will be interesting to see how the team fills that void in the upcoming NFL Draft and free agency period.
While Thielen's release may come as a surprise to some fans, it is not entirely unexpected. The Vikings are currently facing significant salary cap constraints, and releasing Thielen will free up around $6.1 million in cap space for the team. Additionally, with the recent acquisition of receiver Chris Godwin, the Vikings may feel comfortable parting ways with Thielen, knowing they have a talented replacement waiting in the wings.
Overall, while it is certainly disappointing for Vikings fans to see Thielen go, the team's decision to release him was likely made with the organization's long-term goals in mind. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for both Thielen and the Vikings.