Steelers add Veteran Receiver Adam Thielen After Vikings Release
The Pittsburgh Steelers claimed veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen off waivers Tuesday, one day after his release from the Minnesota Vikings, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move provides a potential immediate boost to a Steelers offense seeking to solidify its playoff chances.
Thielen requested his release from Minnesota following a decline in production and with the Vikings facing a challenging path to the postseason at 4-8.The 33-year-old receiver now joins a Steelers team (6-6) battling for a playoff spot in a competitive AFC North,currently holding a 30% chance of postseason berth according to NFL’s Next Gen Stats. Pittsburgh had previously opted against making notable additions at the receiver position before the trade deadline, signaling an intent to address the need through other avenues.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Thielen established himself as a reliable target, but sought a new possibility to contend for a championship during what is expected to be his final NFL season. He will now team up with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, his longtime rival from the Green Bay Packers, marking the first time the two will be teammates.
The Steelers are in a tight divisional race with the Baltimore Ravens,both teams currently at 6-6,and the addition of Thielen could prove crucial as they navigate the final weeks of the regular season. Thielen’s experience and route-running ability are expected to provide a valuable asset to the Steelers’ passing game.
