Adam Thielen's second stint with the Minnesota Vikings didn't go as planned for either the team or the receiver.

The Vikings on Dec. 1 waived Thielen, who was operating in a diminished role for a franchise sinking farther out of the playoff picture.

Thielen said in a statement posted to social media that he asked the team for his release so that he could join a postseason contender for the final few weeks of the year, which will be the last of his 12-year career.

"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 in a statement. "Adam is one of the all-time great Vikings, and we wish him and his family continued success."

After rising from an undrafted free agent to a two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Vikings at the outset of his career, Thielen rejoined his hometown team when the Carolina Panthers traded him back to Minnesota in August.

But the Vikings have slipped to 4-8 on the season amid persistent offensive problems while pivoting to a new era at quarterback with J.J. McCarthy. Thielen has started four games but has seen his usage wane significantly, having not exceeded 14 offensive snaps in a contest since Week 3. He was inactive for the Vikings' 26-0 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Nov. 30.

In 2025, he has recorded just eight catches for 69 yards.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vikings waive Adam Thielen, who asked to part ways and join contender

Reporting by Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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