Former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen has agreed to a $2 million pay cut to rejoin the Minnesota Vikings, sources confirmed Saturday. The decision comes as part of a trade finalized to bring Thielen back to his hometown team. Thielen, who previously played for the Vikings from 2016 to 2, had a successful tenure with the team before being traded to the Panthers in 2022.
The move is seen as a significant personal sacrifice for Thielen, who will now be playing for his hometown team after spending the last two seasons with the Panthers. The Vikings have been seeking to rekindle their connection with Thielen, and the trade has been negotiated to ensure that he can return to play for the team. The $2 million pay cut is a notable financial adjustment for the quarterback, who will now earn a reduced salary for the remainder of his contract.
Thielen’s return to the Vikings is expected to have a positive impact on the team’s offense, as he is a key player in their receiving corps. His ability to make big plays and his deep-threat potential could provide a significant boost to the Vikings’ offensive capabilities. The trade also highlights the personal motivations behind Thielen’s decision, as he has expressed a desire to play for his hometown team and to be part of a winning culture again.