After trading away standout wide receiver DJ Moore in last week’s blockbuster deal that netted them the top pick in next month’s NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers are in need of a big threat at that position.
In order to fill that gap, they’re reportedly interested in signing Adam Thielen, who was recently released by the Minnesota Vikings.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport shared the report.
This is interesting: The #panthers are expected to host former #Vikings WR Adam Thielen on a visit tomorrow. The veteran has plenty left and Carolina will get the first look.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2023
Thielen has been a very nice No. 2 wideout for the Vikings during his nine pro seasons, all of which have been spent with them.
He had 716 yards and six touchdowns in 2022, and he was named to the Pro Bowl during the 2017 and 2018 seasons.
The Minnesota State University product is an interesting success story, as he went undrafted in 2013, yet became a full-time starter for Minnesota in just his third season.
He has made four postseason appearances, which will allow him to supply some invaluable experience to a young Carolina team.
The team will presumably use its No. 1 pick on a quarterback, which will likely be Bryce Young of the University of Alabama or CJ Stroud of the Ohio State University, and either one would greatly benefit from having a reliable veteran widely such as Thielen.
In addition, running back D’Onta Foreman, who had a breakout 2022 campaign with 914 rushing yards and five touchdowns, should provide some support in the backfield for the QB the Panthers nab in the draft.
No one should necessarily expect them to return to the playoffs next season, but their future prospects appear to be gradually opening up with each passing week.
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