The Carolina Panthers activated wide receiver from injured reserve (IR) just before the close of his 21-day activation period on Wednesday, ensuring he returns to the 53-man roster. Without this move, he would have been sidelined for the remainder of the season. After recovering from a hamstring injury, the 34-year-old veteran — a three-time 1,000-yard receiver — rejoins the lineup.
Since his injury in Week 3, he has missed most of his second season with the Panthers. Initially, the team switched to quarterback Andy Dalton, but eventually returned to Bryce Young following a thumb injury that Dalton sustained. This decision followed trade deals involving Diontae Johnson and Jonathan Mingo. Despite discussions about Dalton possibly reclaiming the starting role, the team seems committed to Young, their investment in the former Heisman winner making him the likely choice. Thielen’s presence is expected to help Young’s development. Thielen, who joined the Panthers on a three-year, $25 million deal, was a reliable performer in 2023, standing out in an otherwise struggling Panthers offense.
Given Thielen’s age and Carolina’s rebuilding status, his name surfaced in trade discussions, particularly alongside Johnson and Mingo. While contenders, including the Steelers before their Mike Williams acquisition, reportedly expressed interest, no trade materialized. Thielen is now set to play alongside young receivers Xavier Legette and rookie Jalen Coker as a key target for the Panthers.
Should the Panthers release Thielen after the trade deadline, he would be placed on waivers, allowing teams to claim him with just under $2 million in remaining salary. However, for now, he remains a Panther, helping to guide the passing offense in preparation for the team’s Week 12 game against the Chiefs.
To make room on the roster for Thielen’s return, the Panthers waived wide receiver-turned-tight end Jordan Matthews.
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