Jefferson Welcomes Thielen Back to Vikings, Calling Veteran a ‘Big Brother’
Eagan, MN – Minnesota Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson has enthusiastically welcomed veteran Adam Thielen back to the team, describing the recently re-acquired wideout as a mentor and positive influence. Jefferson’s comments came during an appearance on “Vikings Gameday live” on FOX 9, highlighting the impact Thielen’s return has had on the team’s atmosphere.
Thielen rejoined the Vikings in August following a trade with the Carolina Panthers, a deal finalized after over a week of negotiations centered on draft pick compensation. Minnesota sent a 2026 fifth-round pick and a 2027 fourth-round pick to Carolina in exchange for Thielen,a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick,and a 2027 fifth-round pick. The move was facilitated by thielen’s willingness to take a $2 million pay cut, reversing a $1.5 million raise he’d received from the Panthers earlier in the offseason, as Carolina refused to cover a portion of his salary.
“It’s been great, honestly, just having that happy vibe back in the building,” Jefferson said. “he’s always ready to work and comes prepared every single day, and that’s what I love about him most. He was that big brother to me, keeping me under his wing, and that’s the same type of vibe I try to have for him as well.”
Thielen expressed his own excitement about returning to Minnesota, stating in August, “Obviously, you guys know without me saying it, how much this place means to me…I couldn’t be more excited, and there’s nothing I could say to tell you how excited I am to be back home in my family.” The Vikings hope the veteran presence of Thielen will bolster their receiving corps alongside jefferson,a key component of their offensive strategy.
