Panthers, Eagles Linked in Potential Blockbuster Draft Trade Involving Adam Thielen
The Philadelphia Eagles may be eyeing veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen as a potential addition during the upcoming NFL Draft, with the Carolina Panthers emerging as a possible trade partner. According to Bleacher Report, a trade scenario is being floated that would send Thielen to Philadelphia in exchange for a fifth-round pick.
While Thielen chose to stay in Carolina, his long-term role with the team remains uncertain, especially with retirement likely within the next couple of seasons. He was already the subject of trade rumors last year, and with the Panthers focused on building a stronger offense around quarterback Bryce Young—possibly by drafting a receiver in the first round—Thielen could become expendable.
A former undrafted free agent in 2013, Thielen built an impressive career with the Minnesota Vikings, earning one All-Pro selection and two Pro Bowl appearances. Though no longer in his prime, he could still serve as a dependable third receiving option. That makes him a potential fit in Philadelphia, where the Eagles are looking to strengthen their receiving corps behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Despite trading for Jahan Dotson last offseason, Dotson has underperformed in 2024, leaving quarterback Jalen Hurts to rely heavily on the run game with Saquon Barkley.
Other Teams Could Enter the Mix
The Eagles aren’t the only team that might pursue Thielen. The Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers are also being mentioned as possible suitors.
Kansas City is facing a wide receiver depth issue, with Rashee Rice recovering from injury and Xavier Worthy dealing with off-field distractions. Marquise Brown offers experience but inconsistency, and the Chiefs—having lost DeAndre Hopkins in free agency—may see Thielen as a short-term, low-cost solution to support Patrick Mahomes.
Meanwhile, the Chargers appear even more desperate for receiving help. Though they’re bringing back Mike Williams on a one-year deal, the team still lacks depth. Rookie Ladd McConkey currently tops the depth chart, but pairing him with a veteran like Thielen—who shares a similar skill set—could elevate the passing game and offer quarterback Justin Herbert much-needed support.
With the NFL Draft around the corner, trade talks involving Thielen could heat up, especially as multiple teams weigh their options to solidify their receiving units.