Vikings add more ammunition for potential Adam Thielen trade with Panthers

Carolina Panthers WR Adam Thielen has been linked to the Minnesota Vikings, who recently added more draft capital.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen goes in motion against the Cleveland Browns. | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

With Jalen Nailor injured and Jordan Addison suspended to start the season, the Minnesota Vikings need help at wide receiver. Rumors have them linked to Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen, who spent the first nine years of his career with the Vikings.

Thielen has been an effective option in Carolina, but they could be interested in a trade due to their depth at the position. The Panthers added Tetairoa McMillan in the first round of the NFL draft in 2025, one year after adding Xavier Leggete in the opening round. Thielen is still an impactful wideout, but the rumor mill hasn't slowed down regarding a potential move.

MORE: Carolina Panthers better off keeping Adam Thielen than trading him - for now

Those rumors will only pick up steam now that Minnesota made another move. Shortly after shedding salary by trading Harrison Phillips, the Vikings sent quarterback Sam Howell to the Philadelphia Eagles for a fifth round pick in 2026 and a seventh in 2027.

#Vikings have added draft picks and shed salary with recent trades of Harrison Phillips and Sam Howell, setting the stage for a receiver deal.

Yes, Adam Thielen is in the mix there. But the VIkings have several lines out on the position league-wide.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 24, 2025

With roster cuts just around the corner, any move involving Thielen would have to take place within the next couple of days.

While it might be tempting for Carolina to add future draft capital, it's hard to see how trading Thielen is the right move when they're doing all they can to build an offense that helps quarterback Bryce Young succeed.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen runs after a catch during practice at training camp. | Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

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