The Veteran wide receiver has been one of the few bright spots for the Carolina Panthers in recent seasons, but a well-known NFL reporter believes the team could move on from him before the 2025 season kicks off. After spending nine successful years with the Minnesota Vikings, Thielen signed with Carolina in 2023 and has been Bryce Young’s most reliable target over the past two seasons. However, with young pass-catchers like Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, and tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders emerging, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggests that Thielen may no longer be essential to the team’s plans.
In a recent article, Barnwell argues that despite Thielen’s consistent production, the Panthers could explore a trade. At 35 years old, his best years are likely behind him, and while Carolina is improving, they remain several years away from Super Bowl contention. The team may prioritize a younger wide receiver in free agency, which could push Thielen elsewhere in 2025.
“They could potentially trade him to a more competitive team if they want to make a more substantial investment in a veteran receiver, which would likely land Carolina a Day 3 pick in return,” Barnwell wrote.
Although Thielen is nearing the end of his career, several playoff-caliber teams could see value in acquiring him. Here are five potential landing spots:
5 Teams That Could Trade for Adam Thielen
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are in desperate need of wide receivers. While rookie Ladd McConkey has impressed, he can’t carry the entire passing game alone. Quentin Johnston has shown improvement in a more limited role, but adding Thielen would provide much-needed stability at the WR2 position. Given his affordable contract, the Chargers could acquire Thielen while still investing in their offensive line to support Jim Harbaugh’s run-heavy approach.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Regardless of whether Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, or another veteran starts at quarterback, the Steelers need more weapons. George Pickens is talented but may have worn out his welcome, and the rest of the receiving corps lacks proven production. While Thielen isn’t the same player who once posted 1,300-yard seasons, he remains a reliable target in the intermediate passing game—an asset that would mesh well with Wilson’s skill set if he remains the starter.
Kansas City Chiefs
After falling short in the Super Bowl, the Chiefs face uncertainty at the wide receiver position. With DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown hitting free agency, and Rashee Rice potentially facing a suspension, Kansas City could use another veteran presence. Thielen wouldn’t be a game-changing addition, but he’d offer Patrick Mahomes a dependable target without straining the team’s salary cap.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are moving on from Cooper Kupp as his contract no longer aligns with his production. While Puka Nacua has emerged as a true WR1, Los Angeles still needs another reliable receiver to complement him. Thielen could be an ideal fit—capable of contributing as a starter while allowing Nacua to remain the focal point of the passing attack.
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore’s receiving corps remains top-heavy, and their recent trade for Diontae Johnson didn’t pan out. However, that shouldn’t deter them from seeking another dependable target. While trading for another Panthers wideout might seem risky given their past experience, Thielen’s skill set makes him a strong candidate to serve as the Ravens’ No. 2 or No. 3 receiver.