Adam Thielen joins Panthers on 3-year deal after Vikings release

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The Carolina Panthers have signed free-agent wide receiver Adam Thielen following his release from the Minnesota Vikings after nine seasons.

Thielen's deal, which spans three years, was first reported by former NFL punter and current podcast host Pat McAfee. 

Thielen confirmed with a GIF of the Panthers' mascot doing a dance in the end zone, showing his excitement for his second act in the NFL.

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Adam Thielen #19 of the Minnesota Vikings looks on against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on January 08, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

The Panthers later confirmed the deal. Thielen's price tag has not yet been disclosed. 

Carolina is making some moves this offseason, their biggest being the trade with the Chicago Bears for the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.

VIKINGS, ADAM THIELEN HAVE ‘REAL POSSIBILITY’ OF PARTING WAYS TO CREATE CAP SPACE: REPORT

That pick is expected to be used for a potential franchise quarterback, and moves for players like Thielen are being done to help give that quarterback some weapons to work with.

The Panthers also signed former Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders and former Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals tight end Hayden Hurts to add more veteran options to the offense. 

Thielen's cap hit was set to be just under $20 million for the 2023 season, and needing more cap space, Minnesota let the 32-year-old know that his release was coming. 

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen (19) celebrates with teammate wide receiver Justin Jefferson (18) after catching a 15-yard touchdown pass during the