The wife of former Minnesota Vikings star Adam Thielen has spoken out about the difficult reality facing her family following his dramatic departure from the team this week.
A Family Decision Amidst a 'Crazy' Situation
Caitlin Thielen described the past few days as "crazy" and emotionally taxing in a candid social media video. The update came shortly after the Vikings confirmed they had released the veteran wide receiver at his own request on Monday. Adam Thielen, aged 35, is determined to secure more game-time in what he has stated will be his final season in the National Football League before retirement.
"Thank you, guys, for all the kind words and prayers and everything," Caitlin said. "It's been tough, it's been really tough for Adam and just our family. It's a big decision, and it's not even about wins or losses, it's about Adam wanting to compete, wanting to play and this is his last season."
The Path to an Emotional Departure
This move concludes a poignant chapter for Thielen, a Minnesota native whose career has been synonymous with the Vikings. The organisation's statement explained that Thielen's representation approached them last week to request his release, expressing his desire for a larger role in the remaining weeks of the campaign.
"Following discussions through the weekend and out of respect for Adam, we have agreed to give him the opportunity to pursue more playing time elsewhere," the Vikings said. They praised Thielen as "one of the all-time great Vikings" and extended their best wishes to him and his family.
This follows a summer where Thielen contemplated retirement, only to decide on a 12th season—a decision that involved a significant financial sacrifice. Reports indicate he took a $2 million pay cut and forfeited $4 million in incentives to facilitate a return to Minnesota earlier this year.
Looking to the Future
Despite appearing in all 11 of the Vikings' games this season, Thielen's involvement had diminished, highlighted by receiving just one target in the recent game against the Green Bay Packers. This reduction in snaps ultimately led to the mutual decision for a release.
In his own heartfelt statement on social media platform X, Thielen called the situation "tremendously difficult." He reaffirmed his deep connection to the franchise, stating, "This team is in my bones, it's in my heart and it's part of my DNA. I will ALWAYS be a Minnesota Viking."
He confirmed that since this past Spring, he knew this would be his final NFL season, and expressed gratitude to the Vikings for allowing him the chance to compete elsewhere for its conclusion. Thielen ended his message with a promise: "With gratitude and love and I'll be back to retire!"
