Update on Adam Thielen’s Injury for Fantasy Football Week 1
This season, wide receiver Adam Thielen joined the Carolina Panthers after spending nine years with the Minnesota Vikings in his home state. However, in a surprise move, the Vikings released him to free up cap space for the upcoming season.
Even though Thielen may not be at his peak performance levels from a few years ago, he’s still considered a valuable starting player. The Panthers brought him in to replace D.J. Moore, who was traded to the Chicago Bears. This trade allowed the Panthers to draft Bryce Young as the No. 1 pick.
Over the past two seasons, Thielen has had 137 receptions for 1,442 yards and 16 touchdowns in 30 games.
Now, let’s talk about Thielen’s recent injury update. It was unexpected that he didn’t practice on Thursday, and this is concerning. He had participated in practice on Wednesday, albeit in a limited capacity.
The reason for concern is that Thielen has been dealing with an ankle injury. This injury came as a surprise when he was listed on Carolina’s injury report for the first time on Wednesday. Although he practiced that day, his absence from Thursday’s practice raises doubts about his availability for Sunday’s game.
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As for when we can expect Thielen to return, the Carolina Panthers have not officially ruled him out. The outcome of Friday’s practice will be crucial in determining whether his absence from Thursday’s practice was due to a setback in his injury or a precautionary measure to give him more rest.
It's getting worse for the #Panthers, as both top WRs D.J. Chark and Adam Thielen missed practice today.
Thielen did practice yesterday, was limited, but not at all today. Won't look great for Bryce Young's first career start if both can't go.https://t.co/c5yGONrtsg pic.twitter.com/tlVfXoWWH4
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 7, 2023
If Thielen is unable to play, it would be a significant setback for the Panthers, especially considering the team’s rookie quarterback, Bryce Young. The Atlanta Falcons are currently favored by -3.5 points in the upcoming game, and if Carolina is missing key receivers like Thielen, the odds may shift even further.
So, the big question remains: Will Adam Thielen be able to play in Week 1?