The Carolina Panthers are in the midst of a youth movement at wide receiver, but they may soon have a reliable veteran back in the mix. Adam Thielen has been out of action since Week 3 and now appears poised to return to the field for Week 12. What’s the latest on Thielen’s possible return?
What Is Adam Thielen’s Injury?
Thielen logged one of Week 3’s best highlight-caliber plays when, toward the end of the second quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders, he left his feet and dove in the end zone to secure a 31-yard touchdown catch from Andy Dalton.
Unfortunately for Thielen and Carolina, he hasn’t been able to register any highlight-caliber plays since then.
Thielen injured his hamstring on that play, prompting Carolina to place him on injured reserve. That move required Thielen to miss the next four games at a minimum.
The mandated four-game absence has come and gone, but Thielen has yet to return to game action. The good news is signs are pointing to an imminent return for one of the NFL‘s toughest and most productive players over the past decade.
When Will Thielen Return From Injury?
The Panthers returned to work after their Week 11 bye. Now, Thielen will push to make his return for the Week 12 contest against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Thielen’s 21-day practice window was opened on Oct. 23, and he was placed on the active roster on Nov. 12. Panthers head coach Dave Canales has said he expects Thielen to return. Thielen, for his part, also has his sights set on a Week 12 return but isn’t taking anything for granted.
Panthers WR Adam Thielen on his status for this week. pic.twitter.com/bvqdvLi8qr
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) November 18, 2024
This week’s practice reports, particularly Friday’s weekend report with game designations, will provide the best indications as to whether this is the week Thielen returns.
How Will Thielen’s Absence Impact the Panthers?
Injuries and trades have forced the Panthers to go with a youth movement at wide receiver. Veterans Diontae Johnson and Jonathan Mingo were traded to the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys, respectively, giving rookies Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette top standing.
Both youngsters have made the most of the opportunity. Legette, who leads all current Panthers pass catchers in targets with 45, has a team-high four touchdowns. Coker has 17 catches on 26 targets but has proven to be explosive and has a team-high 15.5 yards per reception.
A year ago, Thielen was Carolina quarterback Bryce Young’s top target, with 103 catches for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns. With Young having retaken command as Carolina’s starter, that history would give Thielen a chance to hit the ground running upon his return from injury.