The 2025 NFL offseason has been a rollercoaster ride as the first week of free agency continues. While a lot of the attention has been on each of the 32 franchise's additions so far, several veteran players have seen their pre-existing contracts adjusted — including Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen.
The Athletic's Joe Person revealed on Wednesday evening that the Panthers have restructured Thielen's contract. The veteran playmaker's original deal was supposed to pay him $6.75 million in 2025, however, his latest performance made him more than deserving of a pay raise.
Panthers News: Adam Thielen Comments on Contract Restructure
As it turns out, it didn't take Thielen long to comment on the news after it was announced. "Year 13, can’t wait to get back at it!" Thielen wrote on social media Thursday afternoon, adding the hashtag '#KeepPounding' at the end.
Year 13 can’t wait to get back at it! #KeepPounding https://t.co/wBLOko2AhR
— Adam Thielen (@athielen19) March 13, 2025
There's no doubt that Panthers will love Thielen's fired-up message. It wasn't that long ago when the experienced pass-catcher's future was up in the air, seeing as he's at the stage of his career when players contemplate retirement.
The 34-year-old might no longer be in his prime, however, it's clear that he wants to be a part of any on-field success Carolina will see in 2025. Whether or not the campaign ends with a playoff berth, the multi-time Pro Bowler wants to be along for the ride.
A three-time 1,000-yard receiver, Thielen began his NFL career as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings. The former Minnesota State playmaker fought his way onto the Vikings' offensive plans after spending his rookie year on the practice squad, resulting in 534 receptions for 6,682 receiving yards and 55 touchdowns with two Pro Bowl odds and a second-team All-Pro showing across nine seasons.
Thielen's time with the Vikings ended when he was released in March 2023, allowing him to sign a three-year, $25 million contract with the Panthers that offseason. The Detroit Lakes, MN native instantly fit in with his new surroundings, culminating with a 103-1,014-4 stat line during the first year of his new deal.
Thielen was on pace for another 1,000-yard performance in 2024, however, injuries capped him at 10 appearances. He still managed to rack up 48 catches, 615 yards, and five scores in that showing, leaving time to tell if he can continue building chemistry with third-year quarterback Bryce Young.
The Panthers need Young's development to take that next step forward if they want to end their lengthening playoff drought. Rewarding Thielen — who's Young's WR1 — with a pay raise to incentivize him to continue playing at a high level is one step to accomplishing that goal.