The Facts: The Vikings are releasing Thielen, their two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, on Friday, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported, per sources.

Diehards Line: There was some thought that Thielen could restructure his deal to remain with Minnesota in 2023. He was slated to carry a $20 million cap hit. But instead, Thielen will have a clean break and become a free agent. Because he’s being released, Thielen will be eligible to sign with any team immediately instead of when the new league year begins next week. Thielen has spent the entirety of his nine-year career in Minnesota, recording 534 catches for 6,682 yards and 55 touchdowns over 135 regular-season games.