Star WR Adam Thielen discusses uncertain future with Vikings

The Vikings are not in an enviable position with respect to cap space as the new league year approaches, meaning the team will need to make a number of financial moves in the near future. One of those is likely to involve one of their longest-tenured contributors.

Wideout Adam Thielen once again faces the probability of having to restructure his contract. The 32-year-old has two years remaining on his current pact and is scheduled to have a cap hit of just under $20M in 2023. Thielen re-worked his deal last March — a move that saw Minnesota gain much-needed cap space — but has his $11.8M salary for this season set to become fully guaranteed just after the new league year. Barring further maneuvering, then, he could be considered a cut candidate.

When speaking about his financial situation on the "Pat McAfee Show," Thielen acknowledged that talks have begun with the Vikings regarding a new restructure. The two-time Pro Bowler is due more than $30M over the course of the next two seasons, but Minnesota will once again have the option of converting a significant portion of his base salary into bonuses. A post-June 1 release in particular, on the other hand, would give the NFC North champions eight-figure cap savings in both 2023 and 2024.

When speaking about his uncertain future, Thielen made it clear, however, that he intends to rework his deal as a result of his desire to remain with the Vikings. 

“I want to be able to help a team & show… I can play at a high level to help them win,” Thielen added, via Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. “Will that be in Minnesota? I don’t know. I hope so. I hope to retire a Minnesota Viking… Will that happen? I don’t know. This is also a business.”

The former UDFA has played each of his 135 career games with Minnesota, eclipsing the 1,000-yard mark twice. His yardage totals have dipped in recent years, as fellow receiver (and 2022 Offensive Player of the Year) Justin Jefferson has enjoyed an historic start to his career. Thielen has still proved himself to be a reliable red-zone contributor, though, totaling 30 touchdowns in the past three campaigns.

Thielen and the Vikings have a few weeks to work out an agreement that lowers his cap hit while ensuring he remains in Minnesota for at least the short-term future. Failing that, he would no doubt generate a considerable market for himself as a free agent.