Headshot
  • Team CAR
  • Pos WR
  • Status IRInjured Reserve

News

  • Not returning Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) has been downgraded to out for Sunday's game versus the Saints, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Considering he put together an LP-LP-DNP practice regimen this week, Thielen appears to have been testing out his right hamstring to see if a return to action was possible Sunday. His subsequent listing of doubtful indicated it wasn't, and Carolina has confirmed as much before game day. Thielen thus will turn his focus to Sunday, Nov. 10 against the Giants as his next possible chance to suit up for the first time since Week 3.

    Published: Sat, Nov 2 at 2:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Doubtful for Week 9

    Carolina lists Thielen (hamstring) as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Saints, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen has missed the Panthers' last five games with a right hamstring injury and remains on injured reserve, but he took part in practices for the second straight week and seems to be making progress. He was a limited participant Wednesday and Thursday before sitting out Friday's session entirely, but head coach Dave Canales said that Thielen didn't suffer any sort of setback in his recovery. The veteran wideout presumably just needs to get in some more practice time before he's ready to…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 9:57am by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs limited practice Thursday

    Thielen (hamstring) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

    Analysis: Thielen maintained his activity level from Wednesday's session, and he now has one more chance to get back to full participation Friday before the Panthers potentially make a ruling on whether or not to activate him from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game versus the Saints. He's been sidelined since Week 3 due to a right hamstring injury, and whenever he's able to return, he'll bolster a receiving corps that lost Diontae Johnson via trade to the Ravens earlier this week.

    Published: Thu, Oct 31 at 11:53am by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in practice Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.

    Analysis: Thielen remains on injured reserve, but if he can maintain limited practice activity or upgrade to full activity at some point this week, he could be activated ahead of Sunday's game against the Saints. Whenever Thielen makes his return to the 53-man roster, he could be in line to handle an increased role on offense, after the Panthers traded top wideout Diontae Johnson (rib) to the Ravens on Tuesday. Of course, the Panthers are playing for the future, so the team could opt to maximize…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 30 at 12:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not yet ready to return

    Thielen (hamstring) is ruled out for Sunday's game against the Broncos, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen, who remains on IR, logged two limited sessions after having his 21-day practice window opened, but he downgraded to a DNP listing Friday. With Diontae Johnson (rib) also ruled out for Week 8, quarterback Bryce Young will have to overcome a depleted receiving corps in his return to the starting lineup. Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, David Moore and Jonathan Mingo will have to serve as Young's available wideouts versus a stingy Denver secondary led by star cornerback Patrick Surtain.

    Published: Fri, Oct 25 at 9:45am by Rotowire.com
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  • Another limited session

    Thielen (hamstring) was limited in practice Thursday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Since Carolina designated him for return from injured reserve Wednesday, Thielen has managed a pair of capped sessions as he closes in on his recovery from the right hamstring injury that he suffered back in Week 3. Fellow WR Diontae Johnson hasn't practiced this week due to a rib issue, so the team may feel compelled to get Thielen back in the lineup Sunday in Denver if Johnson isn't able to suit up. Ultimately, the Panthers will need to activate Thielen from IR by Saturday at 4:00 p.m. ET for…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 24 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to limited practice

    Thielen (hamstring) was a limited practice participant Wednesday.

    Analysis: Thielen was designated to return from injured reserve earlier Wednesday and can now be activated to the roster at any point. It's unclear if the Panthers expect him to play this Sunday in Denver, but his fantasy outlook won't be especially robust if he's cleared to suit up for the first time since Week 3. In addition to potentially having his snaps managed coming off the injury, Thielen would be working with Bryce Young rather than Andy Dalton (thumb) at quarterback while also facing off…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 23 at 12:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Practice window officially opens

    The Panthers opened the 21-day practice window for Thielen (hamstring) on Wednesday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen can be activated from injured reserve at any time within the three-week window, making him eligible to play as early as Sunday's game in Denver. The veteran wideout has sat out Carolina's last four contests due to a right hamstring strain. Once fully cleared, Thielen should reclaim a regular role in three-receiver sets alongside Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette.

    Published: Wed, Oct 23 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expects to practice Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) said Monday he expects to have his 21-day practice window opened Wednesday, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Thielen has missed the requisite four games since being placed on IR in September due to a right hamstring injury. It remains to be seen whether the veteran wideout could be a realistic candidate to get back on the field as early as Sunday's game against the Broncos, but when he's healthy, Thielen will rejoin Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette atop Carolina's wide receiver depth chart. With the Panthers currently on a four-game losing streak and Andy Dalton having been pulled out of the lineup…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 21 at 11:57am by Rotowire.com
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  • Set to avoid surgery

    Panthers head coach Dave Canales said that Thielen won't require surgery for the right hamstring injury he suffered in Sunday's 36-22 win over the Raiders, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Carolina seemingly expects Thielen to make a full recovery from the injury through rest and rehab. After landing on injured reserve Tuesday, Thielen will be required to miss at least the team's next four games, and he won't be eligible to resume practicing until Week 8. Diontae Johnson should serve as the clear-cut No. 1 option in the Carolina passing attack sans Thielen, while young wideouts Xavier Legette and Jonathan Mingo will both move up a spot on the depth chart.

    Published: Thu, Sep 26 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lands on IR

    The Panthers placed Thielen (hamstring) on injured reserve Tuesday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen sustained a hamstring injury while hauling in a 31-yard touchdown reception in Sunday's 36-22 win over the Raiders and will miss at least the next four games. Carolina signed wideout Jalen Coker from the practice squad to replace Thielen on the 53-man roster, but second-year player Jonathan Mingo and rookie Xavier Legette will be first in line to see added reps behind No. 1 receiver Diontae Johnson while Thielen is on the mend.

    Published: Tue, Sep 24 at 12:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Bound for IR

    The Panthers are expected to place Thielen (hamstring) on injured reserve this week, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Thielen exited Sunday's 36-22 win over the Raiders with a right hamstring injury and underwent an MRI on Monday. While the results of the MRI haven't been disclosed, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com relays that the injury is "fairly significant," and Carolina isn't preparing for Thielen to be available for any of its next four games. Expect the move to be made official later Tuesday or Wednesday, with Thielen's absence opening up more reps for youngsters Jonathan Mingo and Xavier Legette alongside No.…read more

    Published: Tue, Sep 24 at 9:59am by Rotowire.com
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  • Getting MRI on hamstring

    Thielen (hamstring) said after Sunday's 36-22 win over the Raiders that he will undergo an MRI on Monday, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was forced out of Sunday's win shortly after connecting with new starting quarterback Andy Dalton on a 31-yard touchdown in the first half, and he was subsequently unable to retake the field. He finished with three catches for 40 yards and one score. The results of Thielen's MRI could help clear up his availability for Week 4 against the Bears.

    Published: Mon, Sep 23 at 8:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) won't return to Sunday's contest in Las Vegas, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: After connecting with QB Andy Dalton for a 31-yard touchdown snag late in the first half, Thielen stayed on the turf and was seen grabbing at his upper right leg, which was confirmed to be a hamstring injury. Thielen will end Week 3 action with three catches (on five targets) for 40 yards and a TD. With Thielen ruled out, Diontae Johnson should garner most of the attention from Dalton in the second half, while Jonathan Mingo, Xavier Legette and David Moore are the other healthy wide receivers…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 3:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Injures hamstring Sunday

    Thielen suffered a hamstring injury during Sunday's contest at Las Vegas, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen remained on the turf after his 31-yard touchdown reception late in the first half, grabbing at his upper right leg in the process. If he's unable to reenter Sunday's game, he'll wrap up Week 3 with three catches (on five targets) for 40 yards and the aforementioned score.

    Published: Sun, Sep 22 at 3:06pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Two receptions in Week 2 loss

    Thielen brought in two of three targets for 20 yards in the Panthers' 26-3 loss to the Chargers on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen's line was wholly uninspiring, but considering Bryce Young threw for only 84 yards overall, the wideout's yardage total actually qualified as the second highest on the Panthers for the afternoon. Like fellow accomplished veteran receiver Diontae Johnson, Thielen's fantasy value is significantly hampered by Young's shortcomings at the moment, and there's little reason to believe that will change in a Week 3 road matchup against the Raiders.

    Published: Sun, Sep 15 at 3:04pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Modest numbers in season opener

    Thielen caught three of four targets for 49 yards in Sunday's 47-10 rout at the hands of the Saints.

    Analysis: The veteran wideout didn't post particularly impressive numbers, but he still led the Panthers in receiving yards, with most of the real estate coming on a 32-yard reception in garbage time during the fourth quarter. Thielen topped 1,000 yards in his first year with Carolina, but he'll likely need Bryce Young to take a big step forward in his development to reach that mark again in 2024, something that there was little evidence of Sunday. Thielen and the Panthers passing game will try to shake…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 8 at 5:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • One catch in preseason finale

    Thielen caught his only target for 21 yards in Saturday's 31-26 preseason win over the Bills.

    Analysis: Thielen and the rest of the first-team offense played the opening drive, which ended in an eight-yard touchdown catch by Jordan Matthews. Offseason trade acquisition Diontae Johnson and rookie first-round pick Xavier Legette could cut into Thielen's target share in 2024, so matching last year's total of 137 will be tough, but Carolina's entire offense could benefit from increased efficiency if 2023 first overall pick Bryce Young can take a step forward in his second NFL regular season, which…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 24 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not in line to suit up Saturday

    Thielen isn't expected to play in Saturday's preseason contest versus the Jets, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen will be joined by fellow wideouts Diontae Johnson (groin) and Xavier Legette in street clothes this weekend, meaning Terrace Marshall, Jonathan Mingo and Ihmir Smith-Marsette, among others, will man the position. At this point in his career, Thielen, a 10-year pro, doesn't necessarily require any reps before Week 1, when he'll begin his quest to replicate his 103-1,014-4 line on 137 targets in 17 regular-season contests in 2023.

    Published: Sat, Aug 17 at 3:03pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not playing Thursday

    Thielen isn't in line to play in Thursday's preseason game in New England, Kassidy Hill of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Carolina is sitting 33 players in its exhibition opener, namely QB Bryce Young, RBs Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks (knee), WRs Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette (foot) and TEs Tommy Tremble (hamstring) and Ian Thomas (calf). Thielen is expected to retain a key role out of the slot in his second campaign with the team after racking up 103 catches (on 137 targets) for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns in 17 regular-season contests in 2023.

    Published: Thu, Aug 8 at 3:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Could stay in slot in 2024

    Thielen projects to reprise his role as the top slot receiver for Carolina during the 2024 season, with newcomers Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette (hamstring) slated to primarily line up on the outside, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was one of the few offensive playmakers to find success during Bryce Young's rookie season, as he compiled a 103-1,014-4 receiving line while suiting up for all 17 regular-season games. Adding an established veteran in Johnson and a high-upside first-round rookie in Legette could give Young the tools to take a step forward, and with that help elevate the Carolina passing offense. Despite an increase in target competition, Thielen's combination of established chemistry with Young along…read more

    Published: Wed, Jun 26 at 11:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet end to campaign

    Thielen caught two of three targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 9-0 loss to the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: Thielen was one of the very few bright spots on the Panthers this season and the main target rookie quarterback Bryce Young could consistently connect with. The 33-year-old caught 103 passes -- the second most of his career -- on 137 targets for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns. Despite a new front office and coaching staff set to arrive in Carolina this offseason, the veteran Thielen remains under contract for 2024, when he figures to serve as a reliable outlet for Young even if the team…read more

    Published: Mon, Jan 8 at 3:59pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Team-leading catch total in loss

    Thielen secured all six targets for 38 yards in the Panthers' 26-0 loss to the Jaguars on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen paced the Panthers in receptions and receiving yards while sharing the team lead in targets, but his modest yardage tally particularly underscores how underwhelming a day it was for Carolina's air attack. Thielen's fantasy value is unmistakably capped by Bryce Young's struggles most weeks, but he'll at least head into the Week 18 finale against the Buccaneers with back-to-back six-catch efforts.

    Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 9:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Productive in Week 16 loss

    Thielen brought in six of eight targets for 94 yards in the Panthers' 33-30 loss to the Packers on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen tied DJ Chark for the team lead in receptions and targets while checking in second in receiving yards. The veteran wideout helped fuel a second-half comeback by the Panthers that just fell short, even recording a 22-yard grab on a last-gasp final drive that fizzled when time ran out with Carolina having reached the Packers' 31-yard line. Thielen's catch and target totals were his best since Week 11, while his yardage was his most prolific since Week 6. Consequently, Thielen has some…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 2:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Four catches in close win

    Thielen secured four of seven targets for 43 yards in the Panthers' 9-7 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen set the pace for the Panthers in receiving yards and targets while sharing the team lead in receptions with Jonathan Mingo. The veteran wideout has naturally seen his production capped some weeks due to Bryce Young's struggles; however, he now has a 9-117 line on 14 targets over the last two games heading into a Week 16 home battle against a Packers team that allowed 381 passing yards and four touchdowns to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

    Published: Sun, Dec 17 at 4:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Leading receiver in latest loss

    Thielen caught five of seven targets for 74 yards in Sunday's 28-6 loss to the Saints.

    Analysis: Thielen was the only player to top 26 receiving yards for the Panthers, as Bryce Young threw for only 137 yards on 36 pass attempts. After posting at least 82 scrimmage yards in four of his first six games with the Panthers and scoring four touchdowns over that span, Thielen hasn't reached 75 yards or found the end zone since. The veteran wide receiver remains the top option in Carolina's struggling passing game heading into a Week 15 home game against the Falcons.

    Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Three grabs in Sunday's loss

    Thielen caught three of six targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 21-18 loss to the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: Rookie Jonathan Mingo saw a career-high 10 targets and led Carolina in catches and receiving yards, and there wasn't much production left over for anyone else. Thielen has now failed to reach 50 yards in four of the last five games, and with the Panthers focusing on the development of their young players rather than feeding the veteran free agents that bolstered the roster in the offseason, the former Viking could struggle to post consistent fantasy numbers down the stretch.

    Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 10:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Worst game of season

    Thielen caught one of three targets for two yards in Sunday's 17-10 loss to the Titans.

    Analysis: Thielen has been the bright spot on an abysmal Carolina offense this season, but even he couldn't get going Sunday. His one reception marked a season low, as Thielen had at least five grabs in every game since Week 1. With hardly any yardage, either, Thielen will strive to bounce back versus the Buccaneers on Sunday, when the Panthers will be without coach Frank Reich after he was fired Monday.

    Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 4:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Eight catches in Week 11 loss

    Thielen secured eight of 11 targets for 74 yards in the Panthers' 33-10 loss to the Cowboys on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen led the Panthers in receptions, receiving yards and targets on the afternoon, corralling half of Bryce Young's completions and 74 of the struggling rookie quarterback's 123 passing yards. The veteran wideout has no fewer than five receptions in every game since Week 2, and although he hasn't eclipsed 100 receiving yards or scored since Week 6, he'll head into a Week 12 road matchup with some momentum against a Titans defense that gives up plenty of production to wide receivers.

    Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 2:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet in Week 10 loss

    Thielen brought in six of 10 targets for 42 yards in the Panthers' 16-13 loss to the Bears on Thursday night.

    Analysis: Thielen paced the Panthers in receptions and targets while checking in second in receiving yards, but on a night when Bryce Young threw for only 185 yards, those figures didn't amount to any remarkable fantasy production. The veteran wideout now has posted at least five catches in every game since Week 1, but he's recorded just 71 total receiving yards in the last two contests with Young going through a particularly rough patch. Thielen next sets his sights on a tough Cowboys secondary in a…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 9 at 8:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Five grabs in loss to Colts

    Thielen caught five of six targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 27-13 loss to the Colts.

    Analysis: The veteran wideout posted his worst numbers since his Week 1 debut with the Panthers, as Thielen hadn't recorded fewer than seven catches, eight targets or 54 yards since then until Sunday's weak effort. Carolina coach Frank Reich appears committed to sticking with rookie Bryce Young under center, but it might be better for Thielen's production if veteran Andy Dalton took the reins of the offense. However, a switch isn't likely to happen on a short week as the Panthers get ready for a Thursday…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 5 at 5:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Busy in Sunday's win

    Thielen caught eight of 11 targets for 72 yards in Sunday's 15-13 win over the Texans.

    Analysis: Neither offense had much success in this one, but Thielen still posted solid numbers as the leading receiver on either squad. The veteran wideout has seen double-digit targets in four of the last five contests, posting a 48-515-3 line on 59 targets over that stretch, and he could be poised for another big performance in Week 9 against a Colts secondary that just got torched by the Saints' passing game.

    Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 3:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads receiving corps again

    Thielen recorded 11 receptions on 13 targets for 115 yards and one touchdown in Sunday's 42-21 loss to the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Thielen worked effectively in the intermediate areas of the field in Sunday's defeat, tallying four catches of greater than 11 yards. He also continued to dominate work among the Carolina receiving corps, as he now has either 13 or 14 targets in three of his last four games while topping 100 receiving yards on all three occasions. Bryce Young may ultimately start to distribute the ball more evenly between his pass catchers as he grows more comfortable in the NFL, but it's clear that he has a…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 15 at 6:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores in defeat

    Thielen caught 11 of 13 targets for 107 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 42-24 loss to the Lions.

    Analysis: Thielen once again led the Panthers in all major receiving categories. With his one-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter, Thielen has now scored in three of his last four games. The veteran has also hauled in at least seven passes in each of those contests, topping 100 yards twice during that span. Although Carolina's offensive has struggled under rookie quarterback Bryce Young, Thielen has benefitted from being the top target, including in garbage-time situations like the second half…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tops 80 from scrimmage

    Thielen caught seven of eight targets for 76 yards and rushed once for six yards in Sunday's 21-13 loss to the Vikings.

    Analysis: Thielen led the Panthers in receiving yards despite falling to his former team. After a quiet Week 1, Thielen has now caught 25 passes on 31 targets since. The 33-year-old offers a dependable option for rookie quarterback Bryce Young, providing good value despite Young's inconsistencies.

    Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 1:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Huge numbers in Week 3 loss

    Thielen caught 11 of 14 targets for 145 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 37-27 loss to the Seahawks.

    Analysis: With veteran Andy Dalton at quarterback instead of rookie Bryce Young (ankle), Carolina's passing game erupted, and Thielen produced his highest single-game receiving yards total since Week 10 of the 2017 campaign, when he was in his prime with Minnesota. The 33-year-old wideout capped his performance with a 15-yard TD catch inside the final two minutes of the game as the Panthers tried to stage a late comeback. Thielen had already begun to establish some chemistry with Young, so his fantasy…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 6:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads Carolina's WRs in Week 2

    Thielen caught seven of nine targets for 54 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 20-17 loss to the Saints. He also caught a two-point conversion.

    Analysis: After making only two catches in his Panthers debut, Thielen caught three passes on Carolina's opening drive and accounted for five of Bryce Young's eight first-half completions. The veteran wide receiver added a three-yard touchdown catch and a two-point conversion on Carolina's final drive. With Young having thrown for only 299 yards and a 2:2 TD:INT through two starts, Carolina's pass catchers will be tough to trust in Seattle in Week 3, but Thielen has been the team's most productive…read more

    Published: Mon, Sep 18 at 8:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet in Panthers debut

    Thielen brought in both targets for 12 yards in the Panthers' 24-10 loss to the Falcons on Sunday.

    Analysis: Donning a uniform other than that of the Vikings' for the first time in a regular-season game, Thielen's production seemed to be affected by the downgrade in experience at quarterback. Rookie Bryce Young unsurprisingly focused most on tight end Hayden Hurst and running back Miles Sanders for short throws against a Falcons defense tough to pass against on the perimeter, leaving Thielen with a minimal role. Terrace Marshall (six targets) and rookie Jonathan Mingo (five targets) both notably…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 4:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Good to go Week 1

    Thielen (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Falcons, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen fit in limited practice sessions Wednesday and Friday around an absence from practice Thursday, resulting in him taking a questionable designation into the weekend. The Panthers ultimately were confident enough in Thielen's health to roll him out Week 1, and even though he's entering the season as Carolina's nominal No. 1 wideout, he could be even busier in his team debut than initially anticipated. Carolina is without one of its other starting receivers in DJ Chark (hamstring) for the…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play in opener

    Thielen (ankle) remains listed as questionable but is expected to play in Sunday's season opener in Atlanta, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Thielen logged limited workloads at practice to begin and close the week, with an absence in the middle due to an ankle injury. If he does indeed get the green light ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff, the veteran will be the clear No. 1 receiving option for Carolina, as fellow starting wideout DJ Chark (hamstring) has already been ruled out. Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall would presumably be next in the pecking order at receiver, while tight end Hayden Hurst could also take on a more…read more

    Published: Sat, Sep 9 at 4:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed questionable

    Thielen (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game in Atlanta.

    Analysis: Thielen sandwiched limited practices Wednesday and Friday around a Thursday absence, after no report of any injury prior to this week. Fellow wide receiver DJ Chark (hamstring) is ruled out for Week 1 but suggested he'll be ready Week 2, while Terrace Marshall (back) is good to for for the opener after avoiding a designation on the final injury report. Rookie Jonathan Mingo and fourth-year pro Laviska Shenault are the only WRs on the Carolina roster that weren't listed on the report at all this…read more

    Published: Fri, Sep 8 at 9:52am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Returns to practice

    Thielen (ankle) is dressed for Friday's practice, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: There was no report of any issue prior to Wednesday when Thielen was listed as a limited participant on Carolina's first injury report of the season. Concern grew Thursday when he was a non-participant, but his return Friday morning suggests the 33-year-old still hopes to play Sunday at Atlanta. DJ Chark (hamstring) and Terrace Marshall (back) also are on the Week 1 injury report, with Chark in particular appearing in danger of missing the season opener.

    Published: Fri, Sep 8 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
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  • Logs DNP on Thursday

    Thielen (ankle) didn't take part in Thursday's practice, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

    Analysis: After he put in a limited session Wednesday, Thielen was merely a spectator one day later, joining DJ Chark (hamstring) as a DNP. The Panthers thus have three questions marks in their receiving corps ahead of Sunday's game in Atlanta, with Terrace Marshall (back) again having a cap on his reps. The situation for all three bears watching to get a sense of who may be available for rookie quarterback Bryce Young this weekend.

    Published: Thu, Sep 7 at 12:47pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Tending to ankle issue

    Thielen was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday's practice due to an ankle injury.

    Analysis: The Panthers' receiving corps is banged up heading into the regular-season opener, as DJ Chark was sidelined Wednesday due to a hamstring injury, while Terrace Marshall (back) joined Thielen as a limited participant. As a result, the state of the group will be one to watch closely over the next two days of practice to see who among Thielen, Chark and Marshall are available Sunday in Atlanta.

    Published: Wed, Sep 6 at 12:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Dominates Young's attention

    Thielen caught four of five targets for 48 yards and a touchdown in Friday's preseason game against the Lions.

    Analysis: Despite missing a few snaps after he took a big hit, Thielen accounted for five of the 10 targets and 66 percent of Carolina's receiving yards while QB Bryce Young was in the game. The Panthers' first-team offense scored 10 points on two drives against Detroit's second-team defense, with the final play being a 21-yard touchdown reception by Thielen on a corner route. The 33-year-old has a chance to lead the Panthers in targets this season and should see his share of looks Week 1 at Atlanta,…read more

    Published: Fri, Aug 25 at 6:18pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Makes Carolina debut

    Thielen caught his only target for eight yards in Saturday's 27-0 preseason loss to the Jets.

    Analysis: Thielen started the game along with DJ Chark and rookie Jonathan Mingo at wide receiver, but those three and fellow wideout Terrace Marshall combined for just two catches across the three drives they spent in the game alongside rookie quarterback Bryce Young. Things didn't get any better for Carolina's offense after the backups came in. Thielen has a chance to emerge as Young's top target in Carolina's remade passing game. The veteran wide receiver's embarking on his first season with the…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 12 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Signing with Carolina

    Thielen agreed to a three-year, $25 million contract with the Panthers on Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Thielen spent the first nine years of his career in Minnesota and drew 100-plus targets in four of the last six seasons. He secured 70 of 107 targets for 716 yards and six touchdowns with the Vikings last year but was let go earlier in March so Minnesota could free up cap space. After failing to top 1,000 yards in each of the last four seasons, the 32-year-old should have an opportunity to serve as the leading receiver in Carolina after the Panthers traded DJ Moore to the Bears as part of a…read more

    Published: Sun, Mar 19 at 4:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Moving on from Minnesota

    The Vikings are releasing Thielen on Friday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Thielen, a former undrafted free agent out of Minnesota State, logged a remarkable 10-year stretch with the Vikings but will now have to continue his NFL career elsewhere. The two-time Pro Bowler and Minnesota discussed a potential contract restructure, per Pelissero, but the 32-year-old will ultimately test free agency as one of the top veteran wide receivers on the market. Though Thielen's statistical production declined across 17 appearances in 2022, he still managed to record 70 catches for…read more

    Published: Fri, Mar 10 at 6:54am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gains 50 yards in playoff loss

    Thielen had three receptions (four targets) for 50 yards in Sunday's 31-24 wild-card round loss to the Giants.

    Analysis: Thielen was Minnesota's second-leading receiver despite finishing fourth in targets Sunday. The 32-year-old appeared to lose a step in 2022, experiencing a decline in receiving yards (716) and touchdowns (six) despite playing four more games than last season. The deadline acquisition of T.J. Hockenson also cut into the veteran wideout's production. Thielen's natural decline coupled with a smaller role on offense should have the former fantasy star's stock down in 2023.

    Published: Sun, Jan 15 at 8:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Has sixth touchdown catch

    Thielen logged two receptions (on three targets) for eight yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 29-13 win versus the Bears.

    Analysis: Thielen had a touchdown catch in the first quarter and then sat in the second half as Minnesota rested most starters ahead of the playoffs. He finished the season with six touchdowns, down significantly from the 14- and 10-touchdown seasons he posted the prior two years, even though his other receiving stats were mostly similar to those campaigns.

    Published: Mon, Jan 9 at 10:50am by Rotowire.com
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  • Just one catch in blowout loss

    Thielen had one reception for 16 yards on four targets in Sunday's loss at Green Bay.

    Analysis: Thielen's role in the offense has declined the past three games while T.J. Hockenson's grows larger. Thielen has just five receptions and 15 targets his last three games, while Hockenson has 37 targets. Neither player may get many targets this week against Chicago as Minnesota may decide to rest or even bench their starters ahead of the playoffs.

    Published: Mon, Jan 2 at 11:15am by Rotowire.com
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  • Catches one pass in win

    Thielen caught one of five targets for six yards in Saturday's 27-24 win over the Giants.

    Analysis: Thielen's underwhelming performance came on a day when quarterback Kirk Cousins attempted 48 passes. Though his five targets were a slight improvement from the four looks he saw in Week 15, the veteran was able to reel in just one catch. Meanwhile, both Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson tied for a team-high 16 targets and turned in outstanding fantasy performances. The Vikings remain a high-volume passing offense, so Thielen will look to bounce back when the Vikings visit the Packers in Week…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 26 at 5:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Heats up late in comeback win

    Thielen caught three of four targets for 41 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 39-36 overtime win over the Colts.

    Analysis: Thielen wasn't targeted until halfway through the fourth quarter, which was odd considering he had caught at least two passes in every previous game this season while seeing fewer than seven targets only twice in the last 12. The 32-year-old receiver got going late, bookending a six-play drive with a 19-yard catch and a one-yard touchdown to cut what was once a 33-point deficit to eight. In the final minute of overtime, Thielen helped get Minnesota in range for a game-winning field goal with a…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 17 at 2:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in Week 14 loss

    Thielen secured seven of eight targets for 65 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 34-23 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen finished second in receptions and targets while checking in third in receiving yards on the afternoon for the Vikings. The veteran wideout made an impact with a 23-yard touchdown grab late in the third quarter as well, bringing Minnesota to within eight points at the time. Thielen's production has some ebb and flow to it, but he's now posted tallies of five or more catches in four of the last seven games going into a Week 15 home matchup against the Colts on Saturday afternoon.

    Published: Sun, Dec 11 at 4:25pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Musters two catches Sunday

    Thielen reeled in two of six targets for 27 yards during Sunday's 27-22 win against the Jets.

    Analysis: After tallying at least three catches and 30 receiving yards in eight of the Vikings' first nine games of the season, Thielen has fallen short of both thresholds in two of the last three, with the exception a 9-61-1 line on 10 targets during a Thanksgiving Day win versus the Patriots. His snap share (86 percent) was in line with the rest of his outings this season, but the fact he's in an offense with one of the league's top wide receivers in Justin Jefferson appears to have relegated the…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 5 at 9:34pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Resurgent effort in Week 12 win

    Thielen secured nine of 10 targets for 61 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 33-26 win over the Patriots on Thursday night.

    Analysis: Thielen tied Justin Jefferson for the team lead in receptions and finished second to his star teammate in receiving yards and targets. The sure-handed veteran wideout's catch total was a season high, and it marked his first time over the 50-yard mark in three games. Thielen's third touchdown of the season, a 15-yard score with 9:34 remaining, also proved to be the difference in the game, making it a highly productive all-around night. Thielen's first opportunity to build on Thursday's…read more

    Published: Thu, Nov 24 at 9:10pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet game as offense sputters

    Thielen had two receptions (three targets) for 25 yards in Sunday's 40-3 loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: Minnesota's entire passing offense was shut down by Dallas, resulting in mediocre stat lines from Thielen and the rest of the starting unit. The veteran slot man was providing serviceable fantasy results prior to this dud, so fantasy managers shouldn't react too heavily to a blowout game script. Thielen will look to turn things around on a short week when the Vikings take on the Patriots on Thursday.

    Published: Sun, Nov 20 at 7:55pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Overshadowed by Jefferson

    Thielen caught five of seven targets for 49 yards in Sunday's 33-30 overtime win over Buffalo.

    Analysis: Thielen finished fourth on the team in targets behind Justin Jefferson (16), K.J. Osborn (11) and T.J. Hockenson (10). Jefferson dominated to the tune of 193 yards and one touchdown, but no other Viking reached 50 yards or found the end zone. Thielen's nose for the end zone has been key to his fantasy success in recent years -- he totaled 24 touchdowns over the previous two campaigns -- but he's scored only twice in 2022. Ending a touchdown drought that dates back to Week 6 won't be easy in…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 13 at 4:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets back to full participation

    Thielen (ankle) was a full practice participant Thursday.

    Analysis: Thielen has been included on Vikings injury reports in back-to-back weeks, first due to a knee bruise and this time around with an ankle issue. While he was listed as full all of last week, he opened Week 10 prep with a limited session Wednesday, only to get back to all activity one day later. Now that his status has been cleared up ahead of Sunday's game at Buffalo, Thielen should be good for his 85-plus percent share of the snaps that he receives on a weekly basis.

    Published: Thu, Nov 10 at 2:51pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with ankle issue

    Thielen was a limited participant in practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury.

    Analysis: Thielen is appearing on the Vikings' practice report as a limited or non-participant for the first time all season. He handled his usual every-down role this past Sunday in a 20-17 win over Washington, catching three of seven targets for 67 yards while playing 94 percent of snaps on offense. He's seen at least seven targets in every game since Week 1, though never more than nine in a contest.

    Published: Wed, Nov 9 at 2:33pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Three grabs in win

    Thielen secured three of seven targets for 67 yards in the Vikings' 20-17 win over the Commanders on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen checked in third in receiving yards on the afternoon for Minnesota, putting up a higher tally than usual thanks in large part to a 36-yard grab. However, the veteran wideout apparently has some serious competition for targets moving forward in the form of newly acquired T.J. Hockenson, who drew nine looks in his team debut. Thielen will aim to build on his second straight 67-yard effort when he faces a tough Bills defense in a Week 10 road interconference showdown.

    Published: Sun, Nov 6 at 4:40pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Puts in full practice Wednesday

    Thielen (knee) practiced fully Wednesday, Alec Lewis of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: After Sunday's 34-26 win against the Cardinals, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell relayed that Thielen picked up a bruised knee, which comes as no surprise in a game in which the wide receiver needed to leave for a spell to get examined in the sideline tent. That said, O'Connell also called Thielen "OK" for Week 9, and the receiver's listing on the first injury report of the week confirms as much. Thielen now can turn his focus to Sunday's game at Washington, whose defense ranks in the bottom…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 2 at 2:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Picks up bruised knee Sunday

    Coach Kevin O'Connell said that Thielen suffered a bruised knee during Sunday's 34-26 win against the Cardinals, but the wide receiver is "OK," Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was shaken up after his third catch of the game early in the second quarter, but after a visit to the sideline tent, he was able to return and eventually finished with six receptions (on seven targets) for 67 yards, his second-highest yardage total of the campaign. With an injury now in tow, his status will be monitored this week in advance of next Sunday's contest at Washington.

    Published: Sun, Oct 30 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone in win

    Thielen brought in four of eight targets for 36 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 24-16 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen once again generated a modest yardage total, but he made up for it by securing his second touchdown grab of the season on a two-yard catch early in the fourth quarter. The veteran continues to mostly be stuck in a short-area role -- he's averaging a career-low 9.8 yards per reception -- but Thielen's route-running savvy and chemistry with Kirk Cousins will continue affording him plenty of fantasy viability in a Week 8 home matchup against the Cardinals following a Week 7 bye.

    Published: Sun, Oct 16 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Season-low yardage Sunday

    Thielen caught four of seven targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 29-22 win over the Bears.

    Analysis: Thielen trailed only Justin Jefferson in targets, but his fellow wideout's 12 catches for 154 yards made for a far more productive day. In fact, after posting his highest yardage of the campaign last week, Thielen's output Sunday marked a season low. Working alongside arguably the league's best wideout in Jefferson, the 32-year-old Thielen has to make do with secondary looks, but with at least seven targets in four straight games, his involvement remains relatively consistent.

    Published: Sun, Oct 9 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Efficient on nine targets

    Thielen recorded eight receptions on nine targets for 72 yards in Sunday's 28-25 win over the Saints.

    Analysis: Thielen continued to see increased usage in the Vikings' offense, as he has 24 total targets across his last three games. He worked primarily in the intermediate areas of the field, with his longest catch of the day going for 16 yards. Thielen has had a narrow range of outcomes through four games this season, tallying between 52 and 72 receiving yards in each of his last three games. For a big performance, he'll likely to need to find the end zone -- which he's done once this season.

    Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 12:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Tallies first touchdown

    Thielen recorded six receptions on eight targets for 61 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-24 win over the Lions.

    Analysis: Justin Jefferson was swarmed by the Lions' defense, and Thielen took advantage by tying for the team lead in targets. His biggest contribution came on a one-yard touchdown reception, though he also tallied two receptions that went for 15 yards. Thielen has steadily picked up his performance as the season has progressed, and he's now topped 50 receiving yards in consecutive games.

    Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 4:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Team-leading yardage total Monday

    Thielen secured four of seven targets for 52 yards in the Vikings' 24-7 loss to the Eagles on Monday night.

    Analysis: Thielen finished with a team-leading yardage total while checking in third in catches and targets, though most of it was in garbage time late in the fourth quarter. The veteran has put together a relatively modest start in head coach Kevin O'Connell's offense with a 7-89 line on 11 targets, leaving him in search of his first standout effort of the season in a Week 3 NFC North home clash versus the Lions on Sunday.

    Published: Mon, Sep 19 at 9:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Makes three grabs

    Thielen caught three of four targets for 36 yards in Sunday's 23-7 win over the Packers.

    Analysis: Thielen finished a distant second on the Vikings in receiving, as running mate Justin Jefferson set a career high with 184 yards and two touchdowns on nine catches. Stopping Jefferson will surely be a focus of the Eagles ahead of their Week 2 matchup, which could open more opportunities for Thielen to contribute.

    Published: Sun, Sep 11 at 5:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Rested ahead of Week 1

    Thielen is not in line to play in Saturday's preseason finale against the Broncos.

    Analysis: The same applies to fellow WRs Justin Jefferson and K.J. Osborn, RBs Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison, QB Kirk Cousins and TE Irv Smith (thumb), with the Vikings erring on the side of caution with their key skill players in their exhibition finale. When the team takes on Green Bay in Week 1, Thielen is in line to start at wideout for Minnesota alongside Jefferson.

    Published: Sat, Aug 27 at 4:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Doesn't play Saturday

    Thielen didn't play in Saturday's preseason loss to the 49ers, Lindsey Young of the Vikings' official site reports.

    Analysis: For a second straight exhibition, Thielen remained on the sideline along with fellow wide receiver Justin Jefferson, running back Dalvin Cook and quarterback Kirk Cousins. Thielen understandably has yielded the No. 1 wide receiver gig in Minnesota to Jefferson the last two seasons, but the former remained productive himself, totaling 1,651 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns in 28 games during that span.

    Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 8:06pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not in line to suit up Sunday

    Thielen isn't in line to play in Sunday's preseason opener against the Raiders.

    Analysis: Thielen, along with Justin Jefferson, will be held out of Sunday's exhibition game. In their absences, expect K.J. Osborn and Ihmir Smith-Marsette to operate as Minnesota's starting wideouts.

    Published: Sun, Aug 14 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Back on field

    Thielen, who is bouncing back from season-ending ankle surgery, was a participant in Minnesota's organized team activities last week, Coral Smith of NFL.com reports.

    Analysis: Thielen indicated that he's now past his injury woes, noting that his ankle "is great" at this stage. The wideout first suffered his ankle injury early in the Vikings' Week 13 matchup againstthe Lions last year, an issue that forced him to miss four of the team's final five games. Heading into the coming campaign, Thielen, who turns 32 in August, is set to reprise his starting role alongside Justin Jefferson. Though he hasn't topped 1,000 receiving yards since 2018, Thielen has managed to…read more

    Published: Thu, Jun 2 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Agrees to restructure deal

    Thielen (ankle) is slated to restructure his contract with the Vikings, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Thielen's restructure is expected to lower his 2022 cap hit, possibly by converting a portion of his salary to a signing bonus. The veteran wideout is recovering from ankle surgery that he underwent in late December, but he is expected to be ready for spring workouts. By all accounts, Thielen is primed to play out his age-32 season in Minnesota as the No. 2 wideout alongside Justin Jefferson, and his restructured deal could make it easier for the team to maneuver in free agency.

    Published: Fri, Mar 18 at 7:29am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expects to be ready for spring

    Thielen expects to be ready for spring workouts after Dec. 28 ankle surgery, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "It's a pretty easy recovery, a few more weeks here and I should be feeling back to normal," he said.

    Analysis: Thielen missed two games with an ankle injury and returned in Week 16, but hurt the ankle again which led to surgery and caused him to miss the final two games. He finished the season with 67 receptions for 726 yards and 10 touchdowns on 95 targets. While he had double-digit touchdowns for a second consecutive season, he had a career low 10.8 yards per reception. Signed through 2024 and with a $16 million cap hit for 2022, the 31-year-old looks set to remain with the Vikings even if a new GM…read more

    Published: Tue, Jan 11 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Getting surgery, placed on IR

    Minnesota placed Thielen (ankle) on injured reserve Wednesday. The wide receiver will soon undergo surgery and is facing a one-month recovery timeline, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

    Analysis: Thielen might have a chance to play if the Vikings make a deep playoff run, but their currently odds of making the postseason would seem to be less than 50-50 at the moment as Minnesota prepares for a Week 17 matchup with division-leading Green Bay. K.J. Osborn will be Minnesota's No. 2 receiver to close out the season, with Dede Westbrook likely handling the No. 3 role and Dan Chisena and Ihmir Smith-Marsette providing depth. Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson has seen 39.5 percent of Minnesota's…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 29 at 9:49am by Rotowire.com
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  • Feels sore, but hopeful for Week 17

    Head coach Mike Zimmer said Monday that Thielen is feeling sore following his early departure in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Rams, but the wideout is hopeful to be back on the field for the Vikings' Week 17 game in Green Bay, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Minnesota was without two of its top playmakers for most of the Week 16 loss, as running back Dalvin Cook (reserve/COVID-19 list) missed the game entirely, while Thielen played only 23 snaps before leaving after aggravating the left high-ankle sprain that kept him out the previous two contests. Cook will be eligible to rejoin the Vikings on Saturday and is expected to be ready to play in Green Bay the next day, while Thielen's status is murkier, given the recurring nature of his injury. If…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 27 at 5:12pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns, picks up another injury

    Thielen recorded three receptions on three targets for 40 yards in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Rams before leaving the game early.

    Analysis: Thielen was active for the first time since Week 14 after missing time with an ankle injury and caught a 25-yard pass over the middle of the field in the opening quarter. However, he briefly left the game at the end of the first half after suffering an ankle injury, only to briefly return before shutting things down for the rest of the contest. There has been no word regarding the severity of the issue and in relation to his previous problem, though Thielen could be in danger of missing more…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 5:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Reenters Sunday's game

    Thielen (ankle) returned to Sunday's game versus the Rams, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: On the Vikings' second snap from scrimmage after halftime, Thielen made a six-yard catch but went back to the sideline afterward. It appears he's attempting to gut out an ankle injury that he seemingly aggravated in the second quarter and previously forced him to sit out Weeks 14 and 15.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 11:50am by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts ankle Sunday

    Thielen left Sunday's game against the Rams due to an ankle injury.

    Analysis: At the end of his second catch of the game, Thielen was tackled by his ankles and was visibly frustrated as he got to his feet and assisted off the field by team trainers. There's a chance he aggravated the high left-ankle sprain that forced him to sit out Weeks 14 and 15, and if he's unable to return, he'll finish Week 16 with 33 receiving yards.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared to play

    Thielen (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Rams, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: Sidelined for the past two games with a left high-ankle sprain, Thielen was able to practice twice on a limited basis this week, which was good enough for the Vikings to sign off on him making his return to the lineup. Unless his ankle acts up during the contest, Thielen should be in store for a full snap load while working alongside Justin Jefferson and K.J. Osborn in three-receiver sets.

    Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 8:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected to play

    Thielen, who is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest with an ankle injury, is expected to play against the Rams, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was a limited participant in practice all week so it always appeared as if his status was trending in this direction, but it's at least encouraging to hear reassuring news. The 31-year-old missed the last two weeks with a high ankle sprain, but prior to that he had six consecutive games with at least seven targets. Fantasy managers will still want to check whether the star wide receiver will be officially active closer to the 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff.

    Published: Sat, Dec 25 at 8:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Deemed questionable for Week 16

    The Vikings list Thielen (ankle) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: Thielen has missed the Vikings' last two games while recovering from a left high-ankle sprain, but he looks like he'll have a better shot at suiting up this weekend. He was listed as a limited participant on all three of the Vikings' practice reports, after he failed to practice in any capacity in Weeks 14 and 15. Fortunately for those considering Thielen in Week 16 fantasy lineups, the Vikings and Rams kick off among the early wave of Sunday games at 1:00 p.m. ET. Managers thus should have…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 10:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Stays limited Thursday

    Thielen (ankle) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday, Craig Peters of the Vikings' official site reports.

    Analysis: Thielen has put in some work at both a walkthrough Wednesday and a regular session Thursday, potentially positioning him to put an end to a two-game absence and return Sunday versus the Rams. Friday's practice report will indicate whether he has a chance to do so, but the Vikings could use his services this weekend after Dalvin Cook (illness) was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Cook won't be available, so if Thielen is cleared to play on his left ankle, Minnesota's primary options in the…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 3:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Fits in some work Wednesday

    Thielen (ankle) was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's estimated practice report.

    Analysis: During the portion of the walk-through open to the media, Thielen didn't take part in any drills, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com. Still, Thielen mixed in at some point during the session to garner a limited tag on Wednesday's report. It marked the first time he went down as anything other than a non-participant in practice since suffering a left high-ankle sprain Dec. 5 at Detroit, setting him up for a potential return to action Sunday against the Rams.

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 2:48pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Thielen (ankle) didn't take part in Wednesday's walk-through practice, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Thielen has yet to practice since sustaining a left high-ankle sprain Dec. 5 in Detroit, missing two contests as a result. In the Vikings' last game Monday at Chicago, he actually was considered a game-time decision, but after putting in a brief pregame workout he was included on the team's inactive list. Thielen still has a couple more chances to mix into practice this week, but he told Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Wednesday that he may not have to get any on-field work to…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 12:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sitting out again Monday

    Thielen (ankle) is listed as inactive Monday at Chicago.

    Analysis: Thielen was considered a game-time decision, despite not practicing since suffering a high left-ankle sprain in a Week 13 loss at Detroit. Per Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Thielen fit in a pregame workout, went to the locker room and then didn't run routes with his teammates, signaling he was poised to miss a second straight contest. With Thielen sidelined and Dede Westbrook (illness) and Dan Chisena (undisclosed) on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Justin Jefferson, K.J. Osborn,…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 20 at 4:03pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Trending toward game-time call

    Thielen (ankle), who is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears, is scheduled to go through a pregame workout before the Vikings decide on his status, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Official word on whether Thielen is playing or sitting out should arrive no later than 90 minutes before the game's 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff, when Minnesota releases its inactive list. After sitting out the Vikings' Week 14 victory over the Steelers with a low-grade left ankle sprain, Thielen wasn't able to practice in any fashion Thursday through Saturday. While the lack of activity normally would hint at an absence, Fowler suggests that Thielen will have a chance to play Monday if he checks out…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 20 at 2:37pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable for Monday

    Thielen (ankle) is listed as questionable for Monday's contest against the Bears, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: This is a somewhat surprising development as there were conflicting reports whether Thielen was even able to participate in Saturday's practice. Mark Craig of The Star Tribune reported Friday that Thielen would essentially be considered a game-time decision for Monday's pivotal divisional matchup, though a questionable designation on the team's final injury report would bode well for a possible return. If eventually ruled active for Monday, the star wideout would miss just one week after…read more

    Published: Sat, Dec 18 at 10:43am by Rotowire.com
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  • Watching practice from side

    Thielen (ankle) isn't practicing Friday, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: The wideout is present but not participating, which suggests he at least has some hope to play in Monday's game against the Bears. It doesn't look promising at the moment, however, with Thielen yet to practice since suffering a high-ankle sprain in the Week 13 loss to Detroit. K.J. Osborn stepped up as the No. 2 receiver in last week's win over Pittsburgh, with Dede Westbrook (now on the reserve/COVID-19 list) handling the No. 3 role. If Thielen and Westbrook both miss the upcoming game, rookie…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 9:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits out Thursday's practice

    Thielen (ankle) didn't practice Thursday, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen remains in recovery mode from a high-ankle sprain as the Vikings took the field for the first time during Week 15 prep. Earlier Thursday, coach Mike Zimmer told Chad Graff of The Athletic that he's "hopeful" Thielen will be able to return Monday in Chicago. Considering Thielen suffered the injury Dec. 5, it may be wishful thinking for the wide receiver to play just a little more than two weeks later. Having said that, he does have two more sessions at his disposal to prove the health of…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 16 at 11:39am by Rotowire.com
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  • Ruled out, as expected

    The Vikings ruled out Thielen (ankle) for Thursday's game against Pittsburgh.

    Analysis: Thielen's Week 14 absence was expected, after he suffered a high-ankle sprain just four days earlier in the Vikings' loss to Detroit. With Thielen sidelined for Thursday, leaves K.J. Osborn and Dede Westbrook will slot in as the Nos. 2 and 3 receivers, respectively, while Justin Jefferson could pick up extra volume as the clear-cut No. 1 target for quarterback Kirk Cousins. Thielen's next chance to play will be Week 15 against the Bears in a Monday night game on Dec. 20. It isn't yet clear if…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 8 at 10:55am by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses practice, likely out Week 14

    Thielen (ankle) didn't participate in the open portion of Tuesday's practice and is expected to be sidelined for Thursday's game against the Steelers, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: While the Vikings haven't officially ruled Thielen out for Week 14, head coach Mike Zimmer told Tomasson prior to practice that the wideout would only return from his high-ankle sprain at some point this season. The fact that Zimmer is talking about Thielen's status in that manner implies that he's unlikely to suit up Thursday, so expect the receiver to officially receive the "out" tag at the conclusion of Wednesday's practice. His projected absence should clear the way for K.J. Osborn and Dede…read more

    Published: Tue, Dec 7 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
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  • Missing from walk-through practice

    Thielen (ankle) was estimated as a non-participant for Monday's walk-through practice.

    Analysis: Thielen is still awaiting the results of an MRI on the left high-ankle sprain he sustained in Sunday's 29-27 loss to the Lions, so his absence from the walk-through session a day later comes as little surprise. Even if the MRI reveals that Thielen is dealing with a low-grade sprain, he's still likely to have a tough time gaining clearance for a Week 14 matchup with the Steelers on Thursday. Though Thielen's early exit against Detroit opened up more snaps at receiver for K.J. Osborn and Dede…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 1:57pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Receiving MRI

    Thielen (ankle) is undergoing an MRI on Monday, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: Thielen will receive an MRI to determine the severity of his reported high-ankle sprain, an injury which forced him out of Sunday's divisional loss to the Lions. Considering the quick turnaround before Thursday's home matchup against the Steelers, Thielen appears to be looking unlikely for Week 14. For the time being, however, it remains unclear whether his injury will entail a multi-week absence.

    Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 8:33am by Rotowire.com
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  • Has high ankle sprain

    Thielen suffered a high ankle sprain in Sunday's loss to Detroit and will undergo further testing Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: It sounds unlikely that he'll be able to play Thursday against Pittsburgh. With news that he suffered a high ankle sprain, he could be out multiple games.

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 6:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sprains ankle Sunday

    Coach Mike Zimmer confirmed after Sunday's 29-27 loss to the Lions that Thielen has a sprained ankle, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Prior to his exit from the contest, Thielen caught one of his two targets for no gain. The wideout's chances of playing this Thursday against the Steelers will clearly hinge on the severity of his ankle sprain, but the short turnaround between games could threaten his Week 14 availability.

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not returning Sunday

    Thielen (ankle) won't return to Sunday's contest at Detroit.

    Analysis: Thielen had his lower left leg pinned while getting tackled on a screen on the Vikings' first possession of the game. He was visibly limping afterward and received treatment from the team's training staff before he was determined to be dealing with an ankle injury. Now that he's been deemed unable to return, Thielen will finish Week 13 with one catch (on two targets) for no yards. Minnesota will turn to Justin Jefferson as its lead receiver, with K.J. Osborn and Dede Westbrook the next players…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 11:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • Hurts ankle Sunday

    Thielen exited Sunday's game at Detroit due to an ankle injury, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was hobbled after hauling in a screen pass early in the first quarter, limping to the sideline after the play. He had his lower left leg examined before the Vikings ruled him questionable to return. If he's unable to continue, Thielen will emerge from Week 13 action with the sole catch (on two targets) for no yards.

    Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 10:25am by Rotowire.com
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  • Two TDs in losing effort

    Thielen caught five of seven targets for 62 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 34-28 loss to the 49ers.

    Analysis: Two red-zone TDs in the first half fueled another huge performance from the veteran receiver. Thielen now has six touchdowns in his last six games and 10 on the year, the second straight season he's reached double digits, and he could be in line for big numbers again in Week 13 against the Lions.

    Published: Sun, Nov 28 at 7:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to end zone Sunday

    Thielen had eight receptions on 10 targets for 82 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-31 win over the Packers.

    Analysis: Justin Jefferson stole the show with 169 yards and two scores, but Thielen quietly finished with a strong fantasy outing. The veteran receiver saw his touchdown streak end at three games last week, but he found his way back to the promised land Sunday, bringing his season total up to eight through 10 contests. Thielen and the Vikings will take on a 49ers squad that is thin at the corner position in Week 12.

    Published: Sun, Nov 21 at 3:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Five grabs in Sunday's win

    Thielen caught five of seven targets for 65 yards in Sunday's 27-20 win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: The veteran receiver saw his three-game TD streak end, and Thielen hauled in less than half the yardage Justin Jefferson did on the afternoon. Thanks to the expanded 17-game schedule, Thielen is just barely on pace for his first 1,000-yard campaign since 2018, but he could have a different milestone on his mind in Week 11 -- he's 96 yards short of 1,000 for his career against next week's opponent, the Packers.

    Published: Sun, Nov 14 at 6:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Salvages fantasy day with TD

    Thielen brought in two of seven targets for six yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 34-31 overtime loss to the Ravens on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen's meager numbers were alarming to say the least, and were it not for his one-yard game-tying touchdown grab with 1:03 remaining in regulation, his fantasy day would have been a complete washout. The veteran's yardage total was unsurprisingly a season-low figure, while his reception total equaled a low-water mark for 2021 as well. On the bright side, Thielen was able to extend his touchdown streak to three games. He next encounters a tough Chargers secondary on the road Week 10.

    Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 2:39pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads team in receiving

    Thielen had six receptions (nine targets) for 78 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: It was an embarrassing home loss for the Vikings against a backup quarterback, but Thielen managers can't complain after another strong showing. The veteran wideout may have lost a step or two over the past couple of seasons, but he remains Kirk Cousin's top red-zone threat, with over 15 total red-zone targets and six touchdowns through seven contests. Thielen will look to keep things rolling next Sunday against the Ravens, which currently own the worst pass defense in the league (296.1 passing…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 31 at 10:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Monster game in OT win

    Thielen (foot) corralled 11 of 13 targets for 126 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-28 overtime win over the Panthers.

    Analysis: Thielen had a foot injury crop up following last week's contest, but both he and Justin Jefferson (ankle) were cleared for action Sunday. The 30-year-old re-established himself as a key part of the Vikings' air attack with new season highs in receptions (11), yards (126) and targets (13) after seemingly taking a back seat to Jefferson over the past few weeks. Perhaps this monster performance will remind Kirk Cousins that the reliable veteran wideout can still wreak havoc on defenses when…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 17 at 2:41pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Removed from injury report

    Thielen (foot) and Justin Jefferson (ankle) don't have injury designation and are set to play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: The Vikings had busy injury reports throughout the week but now appear in good shape for the actual game. Thielen caught just five of 11 targets for 86 yards the past two weeks, but his snap shares (99 and 93 percent) suggest the foot injury isn't too much of a concern. He'll now face a Carolina defense that's given up a league-low 161.6 passing yards per game, though the Panthers have cooled off since they started the season hot with some help from an easy schedule.

    Published: Fri, Oct 15 at 10:14am by Rotowire.com
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  • Registers no practice activity

    The Vikings listed Thielen (foot) as a non-participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: For the second straight day, both Thielen and fellow starting wideout Justin Jefferson (ankle) were labeled as non-participants in practice, despite both being spotted on the field and in uniform during the open portion of Thursday's session. The fact that Thielen and Jefferson were both present at the facility and taking part in work off to the side can at least be taken as a positive, though both will likely need to log limited participation in Friday's practice for fantasy managers to feel…read more

    Published: Thu, Oct 14 at 2:02pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Some activity Thursday

    Thielen (foot) stretched and ran routes before Thursday's practice, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: It's unclear if Thielen's activity will equate to a limited showing, but he did leave the field for rehab work during the media portion of Thursday's session. The same can be said for Justin Jefferson (ankle), as the Vikings' top two receivers tend to injuries. Thielen's level of participation will become known upon the release of Thursday's practice report.

    Published: Thu, Oct 14 at 12:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with foot injury

    Thielen missed Wednesday's practice with a foot injury.

    Analysis: He was one of six Vikings to sit out the session due to an injury, with the group including Thielen, Justin Jefferson (ankle) and running back Alexander Mattison (shoulder). Top back Dalvin Cook (ankle), meanwhile, was a limited participant. The Vikings haven't suggested any o the aforementioned non-participants are dealing with serious injuries, and each of Thielen, Jefferson and Mattison handled full workloads in the dramatic Week 5 win over Detroit. The team now has a Week 6 contest at…read more

    Published: Wed, Oct 13 at 1:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Just two catches in win

    Thielen had two receptions (three targets) for 40 yards in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Lions.

    Analysis: Thielen struggled for the second week in a row, failing to eclipse 50 receiving yards or score a touchdown after racking up four scores over his previous three contests. Kirk Cousins has been looking in Justin Jefferson's direction more often recently, which has hurt his former favorite target's fantasy value. It is unlikely that the 30-year-old's skills have diminished so quickly, so fantasy managers should ride out this minor slump until his volume rises back to a reasonable level. If Thielen…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 3:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Inefficient in Week 4 loss

    Thielen brought in three of eight targets for 46 yards in the Vikings' 14-7 loss to the Browns on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen's catch rate left plenty to be desired, but his yardage total, modest as it was, did qualify as the second highest on the Vikings for the afternoon. The veteran went without a touchdown for the first time in four games this season, and both his reception and yardage totals qualified as low-water marks on the campaign for him as well. Thielen will look to bounce back against the vulnerable Lions secondary Week 5 at home.

    Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 2:21pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Rested Wednesday

    Thielen was held out of Wednesday's practice for rest purposes.

    Analysis: With no injury at play, Thielen belongs in fantasy lineups for the Vikings' Week 4 game against the Browns. He's second in the NFL with four receiving touchdowns, though Justin Jefferson leads the Vikings in targets (30 to Thielen's 26) and receiving yards (254 to 181).

    Published: Wed, Sep 29 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing

    Thielen is present at Wednesday's practice but isn't participating, Eric Smith of the Vikings' official site reports.

    Analysis: The wideout presumably is dealing with an injury, though he's played all but eight of Minnesota's offensive snaps this season, scoring four touchdowns in the process. The Vikings will release their first Week 4 practice report later Wednesday, which should shed more light on what's keeping Thielen off the field.

    Published: Wed, Sep 29 at 12:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • TDs keep coming Sunday

    Thielen caught six of nine targets for 50 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-17 win over the Seahawks.

    Analysis: The veteran receiver has been Kirk Cousins' go-to option in the red zone to begin the season, catching four of the QB's eight touchdown passes through three games, including a 15-yard strike in the second quarter Sunday. Thielen will look to keep his TD streak going in a Week 4 clash with the Browns.

    Published: Sun, Sep 26 at 10:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Finds end zone against Cards

    Thielen caught six of seven targets for 39 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-33 loss to the Cardinals.

    Analysis: While he didn't gain much in the way of yardage, Thielen tied Justin Jefferson for the team lead in catches and scored his third TD of the season at the end of the first quarter on a seven-yard toss from Kirk Cousins. The veteran receiver's campaign is off to another strong start, and he'll look to keep rolling in Week 3 at home against the Seahawks.

    Published: Sun, Sep 19 at 6:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores twice in Week 1 loss

    Thielen caught nine of 10 targets for 92 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-24 overtime loss to the Bengals.

    Analysis: Thielen provided the game's first points with 6:41 left before halftime, shedding cornerback Eli Apple in the front of the end zone for a five-yard score. He scored another touchdown in the third quarter, this time from 24 yards out. Thielen led the team in targets, catches and receiving yards, though fellow wide receivers Justin Jefferson and K.J. Osborn were each targeted nine times apiece. Minnesota's passing game will likely remain busy in Week 2 as the Vikings try to keep pace with the…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not on injury report

    Thielen (thigh) isn't listed on Wednesday's initial injury report ahead of the Vikings' Week 1 matchup with the Bengals.

    Analysis: Thielen participated in practice without any reported issue after he left the team's third preseason game due to a thigh bruise. The injury likely was minor, but he missed the team's final exhibition, which he was likely to skip anyway. His absence from the initial injury report offers confirmation that Thielen is good to go for the season opener in Cincinnati, where he should be in store for a fair amount of targets. An already narrow Vikings pass-catching tree became even thinner a couple…read more

    Published: Wed, Sep 8 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't play Friday

    Thielen (thigh) won't play in Friday's preseason finale against Kansas City, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: The wideout suffered a thigh bruise early in this past Saturday's preseason game against the Colts, and the Vikings will play it safe with Thielen with an eye toward getting him ready for Week 1. Heading into the 2021 season, Thielen and Justin Jefferson remain firmly on top of Minnesota's wide receiver depth chart.

    Published: Wed, Aug 25 at 10:34am by Rotowire.com
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  • Dealing with thigh bruise

    Thielen suffered a thigh bruise early in Saturday's preseason game against the Colts, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was among the Vikings' offensive starters to take the field alongside Kirk Cousins. However, his time on the field was short-lived, as he took a knee to his thigh early in the game and did not return. The injury is not currently deemed serious, though it's not clear when he will return to the practice field.

    Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 8:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No catches Saturday

    Thielen couldn't corral his only target during Saturday's preseason loss to the Colts.

    Analysis: Thielen has been without Justin Jefferson, his running mate at wide receiver, for much of training camp as the latter recovers from an AC joint sprain in his left shoulder. After Thielen and Kirk Cousins didn't suit up in the Vikings' exhibition opener, the pair attempted to connect on their first possession of preseason Week 2 but were unable to do so on a short pass over the middle. The appearance may have been Thielen's only one before Week 1, especially to ensure Minnesota's top…read more

    Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 8:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Leads young WR group

    The Vikings appear to have open competition at wide receiver behind Thielen and Justin Jefferson, Lindsey Young of the team's official site reports.

    Analysis: Jefferson may have eclipsed Thielen for No. 1 billing, but the soon-to-be 31-year-old shouldn't lose many targets to other wide receivers, as the Vikings again have shaky depth at the position. Last year's No. 3 wideout, Chad Beebe, caught only 20 passes in 14 games, and his competition this spring will come from Bisi Johnson and rookie fifth-round pick Ihmir Smith-Marsette. Despite being the ostensible No. 2 receiver in a run-first offense, Thielen shouldn't land too far from his 2020 average…read more

    Published: Wed, Jul 21 at 11:12am by Rotowire.com
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  • Finishes 2020 with 14 touchdowns

    Thielen caught four of five targets for 57 yards Sunday in the Vikings' 37-35 win over the Lions.

    Analysis: Thielen was effective as the Vikings' primary red-zone threat through the air in 2020, trailing only Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill in touchdowns (14) among all wideouts. Over his 15 appearances, Thielen also notched 74 catches for 925 yards on 108 targets. The emergence of rookie sensation Justin Jefferson may dampen Thielen's fantasy prospects for 2021, but the veteran's nose for the end zone should go a long way in keeping his floor high.

    Published: Wed, Jan 6 at 11:34am by Rotowire.com
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  • Paces pass catchers in loss

    Thielen brought in eight of nine targets for 97 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 52-33 loss to the Saints on Friday.

    Analysis: Thielen led the Vikings in receptions and receiving yardage while tying Irv Smith for second in targets. The veteran wideout also notched Minnesota's final score of the evening via a one-yard touchdown grab with 2:10 remaining in the contest, Thielen's career-high 14th visit to the end zone on the campaign. The 30-year-old will head into a Week 17 battle against the vulnerable Lions defense needing 132 receiving yards to reach the 1,000-yard mark for the third time in his seven-year career.

    Published: Fri, Dec 25 at 5:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Salvages line with touchdown

    Thielen brought in two of three targets for 11 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 33-27 loss to the Bears on Sunday.

    Analysis: Thielen would have had a second consecutive disappointing outing had it not been for his three-yard touchdown grab late in the first quarter, which opened the scoring on the afternoon for the Vikings. The trip to the end zone was Thielen's career-high 13th this season, with six of those coming in the last five contests. The veteran will look to continue that favorable streak at the expense of the Saints in a Week 16 showdown on Christmas Day.

    Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quieted in Week 14 loss

    Thielen brought in three of four targets for 39 yards in the Vikings' 26-14 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday.

    Analysis: The shockingly meager numbers were some of Thielen's lowest of the season and came in the wake of a 20-241-5 line over the previous three games. The veteran wideout did come close to extending a streak of at least one touchdown catch to four games, but he was unable to come up with what would have been a spectacular one-handed catch in the right portion of the end zone. Thielen will look to bounce back at the expense of a Bears squad he rung up for two touchdowns back in Week 10 in a Week 15…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 13 at 2:14pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores 12th TD in OT win

    Thielen caught eight of 11 targets for 75 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-24 overtime win over Jacksonville.

    Analysis: Thielen secured his 12th touchdown of the season from three yards out in the second quarter and finished second on the team behind Justin Jefferson in targets, catches and receiving yards. The two standout wide receivers have coexisted beautifully in a Vikings offense that flows almost exclusively through them and running back Dalvin Cook. Thielen should remain heavily involved in Week 14 against a Buccaneers defense that has been stingier against the run than the pass.

    Published: Sun, Dec 6 at 1:47pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Activated from COVID-19 list

    The Vikings activated Thielen (illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

    Analysis: Thielen, who missed the Vikings' Week 12 win over the Panthers, is thus in line to return to the field Sunday against the Jaguars. His return will be a big boost to the team's passing game, with the 30-year-old having posted a fantasy-friendly 49-646-11 stat line through 10 contests to date.

    Published: Wed, Dec 2 at 8:51am by Rotowire.com
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  • Expected back Week 13

    Coach Mike Zimmer said Monday that he expects Thielen (undisclosed) to be available for Sunday's game against Jacksonville, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen missed last weekend's narrow win over the Panthers due to his placement on the reserve/COVID-19 list, and he's still awaiting clearance to rejoin teammates. The veteran wideout returned a positive COVID test seven days ago, though his subsequent results have come back negative. If Thielen is indeed cleared to return in time to face Jacksonville, he'll resume lining up as part of a lethal WR tandem across from Justin Jefferson.

    Published: Mon, Nov 30 at 12:23pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't face Panthers

    Thielen (undisclosed) won't play Sunday against the Panthers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The two-time Pro Bowl receiver had a COVID-19 screening come back positive Monday, but a subsequent result showed him to be negative. However, Thielen hasn't been able to clear league protocols in time for kickoff, meaning rookie breakout Justin Jefferson will likely be thrust into an even more prominent role against Carolina's 19th-ranked pass defense. Week 12 marks Thielen's first missed game of the 2020 campaign. He sat out six games in 2019 because of hamstring injuries.

    Published: Sun, Nov 29 at 8:35am by Rotowire.com
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  • Unlikely to play

    The Vikings don't expect Thielen (reserve/COVID-19) to play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Thielen tested positive for the virus Monday but had another test that came back negative. There hasn't been any definitive statement ruling him out, but the Vikings apparently are preparing for it to happen. Rookie sensation Justin Jefferson will be the clear No. 1 receiver if Thielen is out, with Bisi Johnson, Chad Beebe and Dan Chisena the top candidates to take on vacated snaps.

    Published: Fri, Nov 27 at 12:30pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Status unclear for Sunday

    Thielen, who was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday after testing positive for the virus, tested negative a day later, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The NFL and medical experts are continuing to evaluate Thielen's situation, as it's possible that additional testing may prove that his initial result was a false positive. In any case, Thielen won't be able to practice with the Vikings as the team begins Week 12 prep, prompting head coach Mike Zimmer to admit Wednesday that he was unsure if the wideout would be cleared to play Sunday against the Panthers, according to Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Justin Jefferson would act as…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 25 at 11:58am by Rotowire.com
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  • Placed on COVID-19 list

    The Vikings placed Thielen (undisclosed) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday.

    Analysis: Thielen's placement on the COVID-19 list is an indication that he's either tested positive for the virus or is required to quarantine after having come into close contact with someone who has. In any case, the star wideout's status for Sunday's upcoming game against the Panthers now could be in jeopardy. Thielen has four touchdowns over the last two weeks, so his presence would be extremely difficult for the Vikings to replace on offense, even with Justin Jefferson putting together a wildly…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 23 at 1:38pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Two more TDs in loss

    Thielen caught eight of 11 targets for 123 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: For the second straight game, Thielen found the end zone twice, as he grabbed TD strikes of two and three yards from Kirk Cousins as the game opened up in the second half Sunday. Thielen also set a new season high in receiving yards, and his 11 scores through 10 games is already a new career high heading into Week 12's clash with the Panthers.

    Published: Sun, Nov 22 at 6:50pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores twice in win

    Thielen caught four of seven targets for 43 yards and two touchdowns in Monday night's 19-13 win over the Bears.

    Analysis: Thielen started the night with a spectacular, one-handed touchdown from 17 yards out. Although he subsequently dropped a pass that was intercepted, the veteran responded by scoring from six yards to give the Vikings their final lead in the fourth quarter. Through nine games, Thielen has topped 100 yards just twice, an amount doubled by rookie teammate Justin Jefferson, but his nine touchdowns have nonetheless kept him highly valuable. Considering in Week 11 he'll face a Dallas defense that's…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 16 at 8:36pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Remains quiet

    Thielen recorded two receptions on five targets for 38 yards in Week 9 against the Lions.

    Analysis: The Vikings attempted only 20 passes in their victory over Detroit, limiting Thielen's chances for a big performance. Even with the opportunities given, Thielen had disappointing production as he converted less than half of his targets into receptions. On the positive side, he logged a 30-yard reception -- his sixth of greater than 20 yards on the season. Thielen will likely be in for a tough matchup in Week 10 against the Bears.

    Published: Sun, Nov 8 at 3:29pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Held in check against Packers

    Thielen caught three of four targets for 27 yards in Sunday's 28-22 win over the Packers.

    Analysis: The Vikings' vertical game took a back seat to a huge performance by Dalvin Cook in this one, as the running back scored all four of Minnesota's TDs. Thielen did tie Justin Jefferson for the team lead in targets, and the duo should be more involved in Week 9 against a Lions defense that just gave up three passing TDs to Philip Rivers -- although none of the three went to wide receivers.

    Published: Sun, Nov 1 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets into end zone against Falcons

    Thielen hauled in three of five targets for 51 receiving yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 40-23 loss to Atlanta.

    Analysis: The two-time Pro Bowler has racked up an incredible five TD receptions over the past four weeks, pushing his total to seven total TDs through the Vikings' first six outings of 2020. Thielen has been held to fewer than 55 receiving yards on three occasions thus far on the year, but he's had a healthy workload of 8.2 targets per game, and opportunities should continue to be there with rookie Justin Jefferson attracting plenty of attention on the opposite side. Thielen heads into Minnesota's Week…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 18 at 4:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores twice Sunday

    Thielen (shoulder) pulled in nine receptions (13 targets) for 80 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-26 loss to Seattle.

    Analysis: Thielen abused a subpar Seahawks defense with his elite short-route running, finding the end zone from in close twice on precise zag routes that left his defender a step behind. The 30-year-old dealt with a minor shoulder injury earlier in the practice week, but it did not resurface or affect his game in any way Sunday. Thielen will look to add to an already-impressive tally of six touchdowns through five games when the Vikings take on a soft Falcons defense in Week 6.

    Published: Sun, Oct 11 at 9:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Puts in full practice

    Thielen (shoulder) practiced in full Thursday.

    Analysis: One day removed from logging a limited session due to a shoulder issue, Thielen handled every practice rep. With his health not in question for Week 5, he'll look to produce again Sunday against a Seahawks defense that has allowed a ridiculous 336.3 receiving yards per game and five touchdowns to wide receivers through four contests.

    Published: Thu, Oct 8 at 2:35pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited Wednesday

    Thielen was listed as a limited participant at practice Wednesday with a shoulder injury.

    Analysis: A shoulder injury is to blame for Thielen's lack of reps, but a limited listing to begin the week is generally a positive sign for a player's upcoming availability. On the season, he has two 100-yard efforts to his name and has scored four times in four games, proving his standing as the Vikings' top wide receiver.

    Published: Wed, Oct 7 at 2:11pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Lucrative outing Week 4

    Thielen caught eight of his 10 targets, totaling 114 receiving yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 31-23 win against Houston.

    Analysis: Thielen's previous outing was largely salvaged by a touchdown as he otherwise accounted for only 29 receiving yards and three catches against the Titans in Week 3. That performance came on the heels of a disappointing three-catch, 31-yard outing against the Colts, but the Minnesota State standout returned to Pro-Bowl form against Houston on Sunday. Thielen attracted twice as many targets as any other Viking en route to his second 100-yard outing of the year, also corralling his fourth TD pass…read more

    Published: Sun, Oct 4 at 3:27pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Saves day with score

    Thielen recorded three receptions on five targets for 29 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 against the Titans.

    Analysis: Thielen was overshadowed by rookie Justin Jefferson, who went off 175 yards and a touchdown. However, Thielen tallied a score of his own, recording a 16-yard touchdown in the corner of the end zone in the middle of the second quarter. That covered over an otherwise subpar performance, and Thielen has now recorded 60 yards combined in his past two games. He'll look to bounce back in a positive matchup against the Texans in Week 4.

    Published: Sun, Sep 27 at 3:46pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Quiet day against Colts

    Thielen caught three of eight targets for 31 receiving yards during Sunday's 28-11 loss to Indianapolis.

    Analysis: It's not that Minnesota wasn't trying to feed the ball to the team's top perimeter weapon, as Thielen garnered twice as many targets as the No. 2 option, Irv Smith, during Sunday's defeat. In a similar game script Week 1, Thielen carved up Green Bay during junk time, registering two fourth-quarter scores as the Vikings tried to play catch up. With Minnesota again trailing by double digits in the second half Sunday, Kirk Cousins looked Thielen's way on five occasions. The two were unable to…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 20 at 3:08pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Productive in season-opening loss

    Thielen brought in six of eight targets for 110 yards and two touchdowns in the Vikings' 43-34 loss to the Packers on Sunday. He also caught a two-point conversion pass.

    Analysis: On a day when quarterback Kirk Cousins struggled to get into rhythm for much of the contest, Thielen accounted for both of the signal-caller's scoring tosses and a sizable chunk of his 259 passing yards. Both of Thielen's touchdown catches came in the fourth quarter with the Vikings trailing by double digits, the first a 37-yard reception with 13:53 remaining and the second a 19-yard grab at the 1:21 mark to make the final score closer than it appeared. Thielen will look to put up comparable…read more

    Published: Sun, Sep 13 at 2:07pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Looks sharp in scrimmage

    Thielen had three receptions for 67 yards in Friday's dress rehearsal scrimmage at U.S. Bank Stadium, Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated reports. Thielen has looked in top form in training camp and was the best player on the field during the scrimmage, Dane Mizutani of the St. Paul Pioneer Press adds.

    Analysis: Thielen's 2019 season was derailed by a hamstring injury in Week 7 and he had just three receptions the final nine games. However, he rebounded in the playoffs, hauling in 12 of 16 targets for 179 yards in two games. Following the Vikings' trade of Stefon Diggs this offseason, Thielen is destined to see plenty of targets in his age-30 season, presumably opposite first-round pick Justin Jefferson. It's encouraging to hear that he's back to top form in training camp and again the top target in…read more

    Published: Fri, Aug 28 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sad to see Diggs leave

    Thielen was disappointed when he found out the Vikings were trading Stefon Diggs to the Bills, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen said he and Diggs became close friends while playing on the same team for the past five years. On the bright side, Thielen should see plenty of targets in his age-30 season ahead, as the Vikings are left with a weak WR depth chart behind him -- Tajae Sharpe, Bisi Johnson and Chad Beebe (ankle) being the top candidates to earn snaps. The upcoming draft likely will bring some form of competition, but there's no question about Thielen serving as the go-to receiver under new offensive…read more

    Published: Tue, Apr 7 at 8:41am by Rotowire.com
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  • Five grabs in Saturday's loss

    Thielen caught five of seven targets for 50 yards in Saturday's 27-10 loss to the 49ers in the NFC divisional round.

    Analysis: After topping the century mark in last weekend's upset of the Saints, Thielen had much less success against the Niners' stingy secondary. The 29-year-old receiver dealt with injuries for the first time in his career in 2019 -- he didn't miss a game through his first five seasons in the league, but Thielen was sidelined for six contests in the regular season this year and played fewer than 10 snaps in two of the weeks he was able to suit up. As a result, his production plummeted to its lowest…read more

    Published: Sat, Jan 11 at 8:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Suiting up Saturday

    Thielen (ankle) is listed as active Saturday at San Francisco.

    Analysis: Thielen went through a rigorous pregame workout, including running routes and catching passes. He'll thus be available after a week in which he incurred a laceration on his left ankle in practice that required stitches. While he'll be available, per usual, Saturday, Thielen could play second fiddle to fellow wide receiver Stefon Diggs in the pecking order.

    Published: Sat, Jan 11 at 12:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable for Saturday's game

    Thielen (ankle) is listed as questionable for Saturday's playoff game against the 49ers, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Meanwhile, fellow starting wideout Stefon Diggs (illness) is not listed on the Vikings' final injury report after returning to practice Thursday. Thielen -- whose ankle reportedly required stitches after being stepped on by a cleat during practice Wednesday -- should be considered a game-day call for Saturday's 4:35 p.m. ET kickoff, though we'll look for added clarity with regard to his status once national reporters like Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport tweet out their pre-game who's in/out…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 10:41am by Rotowire.com
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  • Misses practice Thursday

    Thielen (ankle) didn't practice Thursday, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen reportedly required stitches to address a bad cut on his ankle that he suffered during practice Wednesday. His absence from practice Thursday after being listed as limited Wednesday isn't optimal, but the wideout is hopeful he'll be able to suit up for Saturday's playoff game against the 49ers. "You know how it is," Thielen said with regard to his ankle issue. "Got a little tangled up in practice. But I'm going to do whatever it takes. It's (the) playoffs. So I'm going to do whatever it…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 9:40am by Rotowire.com
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  • More injury information surfaces

    Thielen required stitches for a bad cut on his ankle sustained during Wednesday's practice session, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: The Vikings remain optimistic about Thielen's status heading into Saturday's NFC divisional matchup against San Francisco, though his level of participation in Thursday's practice will be a key indicator of his chances of suiting up Saturday. Thielen had not been on the injury report to begin the week, and while the initial fear was that he suffered a setback, this was simply a case of the wideout taking a teammate's cleat to the ankle during practice, according to Ben Goessling of the…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 6:28am by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as limited Wednesday

    Thielen was limited at practice Wednesday due to an ankle injury, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen didn't initially appear on the Vikings' first practice report of the week that was submitted Tuesday, so his inclusion Wednesday hints that he may have suffered an in-practice setback. The wideout's status will be revisited again Thursday, at which time it'll be known whether he approaches Saturday's playoff game against the 49ers listed as questionable or without an injury designation entirely.

    Published: Wed, Jan 8 at 12:45pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Contributes 129 receiving yards

    Thielen caught seven of nine targets for 129 yards during Sunday's 26-20 wild-card win over the Saints.

    Analysis: Thielen averaged an impressive 18.4 yards per catch while gashing the New Orleans secondary for several big plays, including one that set up the winning touchdown in overtime. The veteran had just three catches to his name since October, so this outstanding effort was a tremendous boost to his team's cause en route to the improbable upset. Thielen will be instrumental in next week's divisional-round road matchup with the 49ers, but he'll be facing one of the better defenses in the league.

    Published: Sun, Jan 5 at 4:19pm by Rotowire.com
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  • May not play against Chicago

    Thielen doesn't know how much he'll play this week against the Bears or whether he'll play at all, the team's official web site reports. "We don't know. The coaches aren't going to tell us [if we're playing]," Thielen said.

    Analysis: With the Vikings locked into the No. 6 playoff seed, there's nothing to play for this week against Chicago. Head coach Mike Zimmer hasn't said whether he'll rest his starters and may not announce a decision until kickoff. Thielen didn't have a catch last week against Green Bay, but said it wasn't due to his previously injured hamstring (which caused him to miss five games). The Vikings may want to give him another week of rest, but Thielen could also use the work since he's been out of sync the…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 26 at 5:54pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No catches in home loss

    Thielen failed to catch any of his four targets and added a two-yard carry in Monday's 23-10 loss to Green Bay.

    Analysis: Thielen was a non-factor, as Stefon Diggs was the only Vikings wide receiver to break double digits in receiving yards and scored the team's only touchdown. Hamstring injuries derailed a once promising campaign for Thielen, who hasn't broken 30 receiving yards in a game since Week 6. He'll have one more opportunity to build some momentum heading into the postseason when the Vikings host the Bears in Week 17.

    Published: Mon, Dec 23 at 8:44pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Makes three catches in return

    Thielen caught all three of his targets for 27 yards during Sunday's 39-10 win over the Chargers.

    Analysis: Thielen returned from a long injury absence and did little of note despite his team's dominance on the scoreboard. This was quite a letdown for fantasy owners who patiently awaited Thielen's return to the lineup, but the particular flow of this game likely played a big part in Thielen's tepid production. Barring a setback, he should assume a larger role in a more competitive game against the Packers next Monday.

    Published: Sun, Dec 15 at 7:13pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Cleared for return

    Thielen (hamstring) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

    Analysis: Thielen was a limited practice participant throughout the week, but multiple reports -- including one from ESPN's Adam Schefter -- suggested the Vikings were always expecting the wide receiver to play. Thielen is now set to make his first appearance since Week 9, when he aggravated his hamstring injury and was pulled from the game after seven snaps. His return should translate to a reduced role for fellow wide receiver Bisi Johnson, who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game due to a quad…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 13 at 10:44am by Rotowire.com
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  • Week 15 return still looking likely

    Thielen (hamstring) remains on track to play Sunday against the Chargers, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Thielen played just 16 snaps over the last seven games as a result of his right hamstring injury, but barring a setback at practice Friday, his absence looks like it'll come to an end this weekend. The wideout's official status for Week 15 will be revealed later Friday, when the Vikings issue their final injury report of the week following practice.

    Published: Fri, Dec 13 at 8:04am by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited at practice again

    Thielen (hamstring) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: An upgrade to full participation would've been comforting for fantasy managers, but Thielen nonetheless is trending toward his first game appearance since Week 9, now having practiced on back-to-back days. The wideout was optimistic at the conclusion of Thursday's session, after a report from Adam Schefter of ESPN on Wednesday suggested the Vikings expect to get Thielen back in the lineup. An upgrade to full participation Friday isn't necessary, but it sure would be a great sign. The Vikings…read more

    Published: Thu, Dec 12 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Practices again Thursday

    Thielen (hamstring) practiced again Thursday, after which he said the Vikings want to see how he progresses this week before making a decision on his availability for Sunday's road game against the Chargers, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen is as optimistic as he's been at any point in his recovery from a strained right hamstring. His belief is backed up by an Adam Schefter of ESPN report from Wednesday that stated Thielen is in line to play Sunday for the first time since Week 9, barring a setback. It's unclear if Thielen was limited for a second straight session Thursday, or elevated to all activity, but he seems to be trending in the right direction.

    Published: Thu, Dec 12 at 11:16am by Rotowire.com
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  • Limited in Wednesday's practice

    Thielen (hamstring) was a limited participant during Wednesday's practice.

    Analysis: Thielen's limited session signifies his first practice activity of any kind since Nov. 30. Barring any setbacks, the veteran wideout is trending toward suiting up Sunday against the Chargers, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Thielen will have two more opportunities to practice in full and shed his injury designation for Week 15.

    Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 1:59pm by Rotowire.com
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  • In line to return Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) is on track to play Sunday against the Chargers for the first time since Week 9, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Thielen made an appearance on the practice field Wednesday, his first activity since Nov. 30. As mentioned by Schefter, the Vikings expect to have Thielen back in the lineup Week 15, so long as he avoids a setback with his right hamstring. The Vikings will indicate whether Thielen was a limited or full participant in Wednesday's practice when they release their first report of Week 15 later in the day.

    Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
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  • Gets in some work Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) returned to practice Wednesday, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: This marks Thielen's first appearance at practice since Nov. 30 as he tends to a lingering right hamstring injury. During the session, he ran routes and caught passes, but his activity level won't be known until the release of Wednesday's injury report.

    Published: Wed, Dec 11 at 11:23am by Rotowire.com
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  • Not suiting up Week 14

    Thielen (hamstring) is listed as inactive Sunday against the Lions.

    Analysis: Such was the expectation when the Vikings marked Thielen as doubtful for this contest, resulting in his fifth absence in the last six games. He even failed to practice this week, an unexpected downturn after he logged limited work in prior weeks. On Sunday morning, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network relayed Thielen is attempting "to get scar tissue out of his (right) leg," but he's hopeful to make a return to action Week 15 on the road against the Chargers. While Thielen embarks on what is potentially…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
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  • On track to sit Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring), who is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions, is not expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: The doubtful designation already gave away that Thielen was likely in line to sit out for the fifth time in six games, but Schefter's report at least confirms that the wideout hasn't made any unexpected progress in his recovery from the hamstring issue since Friday's practice. On a more fortunate note for Thielen, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network relays that the Vikings are optimistic the receiver is going to be ready to go for the Week 15 matchup with the Chargers, a crucial development as the…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 8 at 5:30am by Rotowire.com
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  • Doubtful for Week 14

    Thielen (hamstring) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions.

    Analysis: Thielen seems to have taken a step back from last week, when he was listed as questionable (but later ruled out ahead of a loss to Seattle) after logging a trio of limited practices. He hasn't practiced in any capacity for Week 14, and there hasn't been any indication he has a real shot to play. The Vikings will turn to Bisi Johnson as their No. 2 receiver for yet another week, with the offense largely relying on that involved a fullback and/or multiple tight ends. Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith…read more

    Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 10:45am by Rotowire.com
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  • Looking unlikely for Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't practicing Friday, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: A third consecutive absence from practice leaves Thielen unlikely to play in Sunday's game against the Lions. He was a limited participant last week, ultimately getting ruled out for Monday's loss to the Seahawks. The downgrade in participation level hints at a setback, though neither player nor team has said anything to that effect. Another update will be available later Friday, when the Vikings release their final Week 14 injury report.

    Published: Fri, Dec 6 at 9:24am by Rotowire.com
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  • Not ruled out for Week 14

    Coach Mike Zimmer said that Thielen (hamstring) still has a "good opportunity" to play Sunday against the Lions, despite being a non-participant in the Vikings' first two practices of Week 14. "He's working really hard. He obviously wants to get out there with his guys," Zimmer told Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "When he's ready, he's ready."

    Analysis: Zimmer went on to note that Thielen hasn't experienced a recent setback with his strained right hamstring, but the wideout's inability to log any practice activity since his seven-snap cameo in the Week 9 loss to the Chiefs suggests that he's plateaued in his recovery, at the very least. Despite Zimmer's positive outlook about the situation, it would be a surprise if Thielen ultimately suited up Sunday after being idle for much of the past four weeks.

    Published: Thu, Dec 5 at 2:04pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits for another practice

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't participating in Thursday's practice, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Given that Thielen wasn't even on the field for Wednesday's light walk-through session, it comes as little surprise that he was confined to working out on a side field during a more intense practice Thursday. The Vikings haven't officially ruled Thielen out for Sunday's game against the Lions, but his inability to practice on even a limited basis at this stage of the week suggests he's likely in line to miss a fourth consecutive contest.

    Published: Thu, Dec 5 at 9:29am by Rotowire.com
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  • Non-participant Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) didn't practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Thielen wasn't able to handle any reps Wednesday, despite the Vikings holding a walk-through practice without pads. The star wideout was held out of Monday's loss to the Seahawks, and he's not trending in the right direction for Sunday's divisional contest against the Lions. Thielen will have two more chances to up his level of activity before the Vikings make a decision on his Week 14 availability. If Thielen were to miss any more time, Stefon Diggs, Bisi Johnson, Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 1:43pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not wearing jersey Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) wasn't wearing a jersey during the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Two days removed from a Week 13 loss at Seattle, the Vikings are holding a walk-through without pads, but Thielen doesn't appear to be a participant. Ultimately, Wednesday's practice report will reveal whether or not he fit in any reps as he continues to work his way back from a hamstring injury.

    Published: Wed, Dec 4 at 1:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Won't return Monday

    The Vikings ruled out Thielen (hamstring) for Monday's game at Seattle.

    Analysis: In the midst of being listed as limited on all three Week 13 practice reports, Thielen told Tom Pelissero of NFL Network that he was "getting there" in his recovery from a right hamstring injury. "Now I have to show I can do it and I can do it over and over and over and it can hold up," Thielen said. Listed as questionable Saturday, Thielen nonetheless didn't make it all the way to game day, considering the Vikings' early decision. With the veteran out for the fourth time in five games, the…read more

    Published: Sun, Dec 1 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as questionable

    Thielen (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Monday's contest against the Seahawks.

    Analysis: Thielen managed to practice two of the three days this week, which would seem to suggest he's on track to potentially return from his two-game absence, further reinforcing a quote earlier in the week which hinted Thielen's availability would not come down to a game-time decision. While the 29-year-old was coy in regard to his availability after being pressed by reporters, it seems entirely possible fantasy owners will need to continually check in on Thielen's status leading up to Monday's 8:15…read more

    Published: Sat, Nov 30 at 10:55am by Rotowire.com
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  • Participating in practice Saturday

    Thielen (hamstring) is practicing Saturday, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: We won't know Thielen's official practice status until later Saturday afternoon, but it does seem as if the veteran wide receiver is on pace to possibly suit up Monday against the Seahawks. More information will likely be available following the release of the team's final injury report.

    Published: Sat, Nov 30 at 9:44am by Rotowire.com
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  • Not sure if he'll play

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't sure if he'll play in Monday's game against the Seahawks, but he mentioned that everything has gone according to plan so far, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. "Now I have to show I can do it, and I can do it over and over and over and it can hold up," Thielen said Friday.

    Analysis: Thielen returned to practice Friday as a limited participant and spoke with the media afterward, noting that he doesn't expect his availability to come down to a game-time decision or a pregame workout. He anticipates knowing his status by Saturday or Sunday, but that doesn't necessarily mean the decision will be public knowledge. Thielen also mentioned that he's unlikely to play in the game unless his hamstring is deemed 100 percent healthy, per Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune.…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 2:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Returns to practice

    Thielen (hamstring) returned to practice Friday, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: After Thielen practiced Tuesday and then sitting out Wednesday, the Vikings listed him as a limited participant on Thursday's estimated injury report, as the team didn't actually hold a practice on Thanksgiving Day. Since the play Monday night in Seattle in Week 13, the Vikings won't release their final injury report until Saturday. Prior to that, the Friday report will reveal if Thielen was a full participant or limited.

    Published: Fri, Nov 29 at 9:27am by Rotowire.com
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  • Listed as limited Thursday

    Thielen (hamstring) was listed as a limited participant on Thursday's practice estimate.

    Analysis: The Vikings held an informal session Wednesday in which Thielen didn't do much more than stretch and throw with his teammates. According to Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com, there was a "slight scare" with Thielen's right hamstring when the team reconvened Monday following their Week 12 bye. Thielen's listing Thursday is a step toward getting clearance to end a two-game absence, and two practices remain for him to gain the confidence of Minnesota's training staff prior to Monday's visit to Seattle.

    Published: Thu, Nov 28 at 12:24pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Not practicing Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't participating in Wednesday's practice, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Instead, Thielen stretched with teammates and then worked off to the side during the portion of practice that was open to the media. The star wideout's hamstring was reportedly still presenting issues for him during Monday's short practice session, so the Vikings are seemingly easing him back into on-field work coming off a Week 12 bye. Thielen's chances of putting a two-game absence to rest and suiting up against the Seahawks on Dec. 2 will likely hinge on what he's able to do in practices…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 27 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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  • Back on the field Tuesday

    Thielen (hamstring) took part in Tuesday's practice, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: After injuring his right hamstring Week 7, Thielen attempted to return Week 9 at Kansas City but lasted just seven offensive snaps before leaving the contest for good. He proceeded to focus on rehab rather than practice over the Vikings' ensuing two games, and with the benefit of the team's Week 12 bye, he appears to have made significant progress in his recovery. Tuesday's session was informal, though, so his activity level won't become clear until the release of Wednesday's injury report.

    Published: Tue, Nov 26 at 10:09am by Rotowire.com
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  • Confirmed out for another week

    Thielen (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Denver, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Absent from practice for a second straight week, Thielen will hope to rejoin the lineup after a Week 12 bye. Olabisi Johnson will once again fill in as the No. 2 receiver, with Laquon Treadwell slotting into the No. 3 role. When Thielen has been off the field this season, the Vikings mostly have relied on one/two-wide formations, with No. 2 tight end Irv Smith and fullback C.J. Ham both getting steady playing time.

    Published: Fri, Nov 15 at 10:34am by Rotowire.com
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  • Finishes week with no practice

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't practicing Friday, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Coach Mike Zimmer wasn't ready to rule Thielen out for Week 11 after missing Thursday's practice, but another absence to close out the week makes it a virtual certainty the receiver won't be available Sunday against the Broncos. The Vikings will announce an official decision on Thielen's status with the release of their final injury report later Friday.

    Published: Fri, Nov 15 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
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  • Door not closed on playing Sunday

    Coach Mike Zimmer said Thursday that Thielen (hamstring) has "a chance to play" Sunday versus the Broncos, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Considering Thielen hasn't practiced this week, his odds to suit up may be minuscule, but Zimmer hasn't closed the door on having his top wide receiver available just yet. Friday's session and ensuing injury report will give a better sense of Thielen's Week 11 availability, but another absence would improve the prospects of Kyle Rudolph, Irv Smith Jr. and Bisi Johnson.

    Published: Thu, Nov 14 at 12:22pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Sits for another practice

    Thielen (hamstring) wasn't on the field for Thursday's practice, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen's inability to practice for the second straight day adds fuel to the notion that the Vikings will withhold him from action through their Week 12 bye. Before Minnesota makes an official call on Thielen's status for Sunday's game against the Broncos, the team will see what the wideout is able to do Friday in the final practice of the week. In any event, Thielen's fantasy managers should already begin preparing to use other options at receiver for their weekly matchups.

    Published: Thu, Nov 14 at 9:40am by Rotowire.com
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  • Doesn't practice Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) was held out of practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Thielen stretched before the session and was spotted doing resistance training on the side, according to Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com. Having said that, the activity wasn't enough for Thielen to attain an "LP" next to his name on the injury report. Deemed "week-to-week" by coach Mike Zimmer, Thielen doesn't have a precise timetable for a return to the practice field and therefore game action.

    Published: Wed, Nov 13 at 3:00pm by Rotowire.com
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  • No activity Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) wasn't taking part in the portion of Wednesday's practice open to the media, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Although Thielen stretched before the session, he didn't have a helmet once drills kicked off. Because coach Mike Zimmer considers Thielen "week-to-week," he can't be ruled out for Sunday's contest against the Broncos just yet. Ultimately, the Vikings may wait to make a decision on Thielen until game day, especially if he's able to take the practice field by week's end.

    Published: Wed, Nov 13 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Considered week-to-week

    Coach Mike Zimmer said he views Thielen (hamstring) as week-to-week, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: Unable to practice this week, Thielen has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Dallas and may not be ready for Week 11 against Denver. The "week-to-week" statement isn't too promising, and the Vikings may favor a cautious approach with their bye coming up in Week 12. Bisi Johnson and Laquon Treadwell will provide support for Stefon Diggs in Sunday's matchup with the Cowboys.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 11:25am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Officially ruled out

    Thielen (hamstring) has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Dallas.

    Analysis: Thielen aggravated his hamstring in the first quarter of Sunday's 26-24 loss to the Chiefs, exiting after seven snaps. He didn't practice at all this week, and it isn't clear if he'll be back for Week 11 against Denver. The Vikings have a Week 12 bye, so a cautious approach might be in order. Bisi Johnson has been operating as the No. 2 receiver, with Laquon Treadwell joining in three-wide sets.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 10:35am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not practicing

    Thielen (hamstring) isn't practicing Friday, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Following last week's aggravation, Thielen never had much chance to play in Sunday's game against the Cowboys. He'll likely be listed as 'out' or 'doubtful' when the Vikings release their final injury report.

    Published: Fri, Nov 8 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Absent from practice

    Thielen (hamstring) didn't practice Thursday, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Common sense hints at a Week 10 absence, after Thielen aggravated his hamstring in the first quarter of Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Chiefs. Coach Mike Zimmer doesn't view the injury as a long-term problem, but the Vikings reportedly expect their star wide receiver to miss Sunday's game in Dallas. With a Week 12 bye around the corner, the team may also take a cautious approach as it prepares for Week 11 against Denver.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 12:54pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Another missed practice

    Thielen (hamstring) remained sidelined at Thursday's practice, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen is trending toward an absence Sunday night against the Cowboys, as the Vikings are inclined not to rush him back after the wideout's right hamstring "grabbed a bit" during his limited time on the field in Week 9. Per Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune,Thielen's issue is not considered long term, so even if he's ruled out this week, it's plausible that he'll be able to play Nov. 17 against the Broncos.

    Published: Thu, Nov 7 at 9:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No practice Wednesday

    Thielen (hamstring) didn't participate in practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Thielen attempted to return from a one-game absence this past Sunday in Kansas City but lasted just seven offensive snaps before being removed from the contest for good. On Wednesday, coach Mike Zimmer told Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune that he doesn't consider Thielen's right hamstring injury to be a long-term concern. Having said that, the Vikings don't expect Thielen to suit up Sunday night at Dallas, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. With a bye on the docket Week…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 2:52pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Hamstring not deemed major concern

    Coach Mike Zimmer said Wednesday that Thielen's right hamstring strain isn't considered a "long-term" concern, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: After a one-game absence, Thielen was cleared to play in Sunday's loss to the Chiefs, but he only logged seven snaps before Zimmer said the wideout's hamstring "grabbed a bit." Zimmer added that Thielen "was not rushed back too soon" from the injury and isn't dealing with a setback, but the Vikings may nonetheless elect to proceed cautiously with the 29-year-old until the training staff is confident that he's closer to 100 percent. To that end, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the…read more

    Published: Wed, Nov 6 at 8:39am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely to sit out Week 10

    Thielen didn't aggravate his hamstring injury during his brief appearance in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Chiefs, but the Vikings are expected to hold him out of the team's Week 10 game versus the Cowboys, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: After a one-game absence due to the injury, Thielen pushed to play against Kansas City, but he only played seven snaps before removing himself from the contest in the first quarter. With Thielen apparently informing the coaching staff that the hamstring was still troubling him, the Vikings are seemingly motivated to take a cautious approach with him in order to avoid a long-term setback. Minnesota will likely wait until later in the week before offering a definitive ruling on Thielen's status…read more

    Published: Tue, Nov 5 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Status murky for Week 10

    Thielen (hamstring) never returned to Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Chiefs after exiting the game late in the first quarter and was seen sitting on the bench without his helmet during the second half, Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: There has yet to be a firm update on Thielen's status, but given how quickly he re-aggravated his hamstring strain Sunday, it appears he's likely in for an uphill battle to suit up for a Week 10 Sunday night showdown against the Cowboys. Thielen finished the loss to the Chiefs without a target.

    Published: Mon, Nov 4 at 10:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Aggravates hamstring injury

    Thielen (hamstring) left Sunday's game at Kansas City.

    Analysis: Thielen was on the sideline during the Vikings' first-quarter touchdown drive, which ended with rookie Bisi Johnson getting his second score of the season. It appears Thielen aggravated his right hamstring injury, a development that leaves him questionable to return to the contest.

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 10:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back in action Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) is listed as active Sunday in Kansas City.

    Analysis: The Vikings tabbed Thielen as questionable to play after logging limited practices throughout Week 9 preparations. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com more or less confirmed that designation Saturday, noting Thielen was "50-50" to return following a one-game absence. Per Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, Thielen completed a stretching routine and otherwise tested out his right hamstring during a pregame warmup, after which the Vikings cleared him to suit up. That said, it remains to be seen…read more

    Published: Sun, Nov 3 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected to play Sunday

    Thielen (hamstring) is expected to play at Kansas City on Sunday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was reportedly considered "50/50" earlier Saturday, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, but he now appears on track to face the Chiefs. The 29-year-old will still likely go through a pregame workout to be safe, so it's worth keeping an eye on Minnesota's inactives list, which should be posted about 90 minutes before the 1pm ET kickoff.

    Published: Sat, Nov 2 at 9:15pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Game-time decision on tap

    Thielen (hamstring) is considered "50/50" for Sunday's contest against the Chiefs, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: This isn't much different than the reports out of Minnesota following the team's Friday injury report, with Thielen publicly suggesting he's optimistic he can suit up Sunday. Expected cold weather could put a damper on Thielen's ability to loosen up enough to compete, but a pregame workout prior to the 1 p.m. EST kickoff should be enough to determine the veteran receiver's status.

    Published: Sat, Nov 2 at 2:48pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Optimistic he can play

    Thielen (hamstring) is optimistic about his odds of playing in Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

    Analysis: A limited participant in each practice this week, Thielen is listed as questionable for Sunday's game, with coach Mike Zimmer saying the Vikings likely will put the wide receiver through a pregame workout before a decision on his status is made, per Courtney Cronin of ESPN.com. Cold weather in Kansas City may make it a bit more difficult for Thielen to get his hamstring loose, but he's nonetheless bullish about his chances. A final word on Thielen's status may not come until the Vikings release…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 2:22pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Considered truly questionable

    Thielen (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chiefs, Chad Graff of The Athletic reports.

    Analysis: A limited practice participant throughout the week, Thielen consistently wore a protective sleeve over his right leg, hinting at some level of concern about the hamstring injury. Coach Mike Zimmer declined to provide any hints, saying he wouldn't use his crystal ball to predict Thielen's availability, per Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. The wide receiver thus needs to be treated as a game-time decision ahead of Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff in Kansas City. Olabisi Johnson replaced…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 10:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Practicing with wrap over leg

    Thielen (hamstring) is practicing Friday with a sleeve over his right leg, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.

    Analysis: Thielen was a limited practice participant Wednesday and Thursday but is still aiming to return for Sunday's game in Kansas City. A full practice session would put him on track to do so, while another limited showing likely would leave him questionable for the contest. Another update will be available once the Vikings release their final injury report later Friday.

    Published: Fri, Nov 1 at 9:35am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com

Rankings

  • Bye Week11
  • Rank107
  • % Rostered11.2
  • % Change4.3
  • WK 8 Pts0.00
  • WK 9 Pts0.00

Thielen Fantasy News