Adam Thielen is an outstanding professional. The Carolina Panthers are highly dependent on his influence both on and off the field. That doesn't mean he'll be on the squad when Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars arrives.
Thielen has been the subject of intense trade speculation in recent days. The Minnesota Vikings are reportedly in discussions with the Panthers over a potential homecoming via trade. A Day 3 pick is the asking price, although the exact round hasn't been disclosed.
Depending on what fans believe, this deal is close or won't happen. It's the conflicting reports typically associated with this time of year, but one Panthers insider highlighted the exact reason why general manager Dan Morgan won't be giving Thielen away for nothing.