dq. Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Veteran 2-Time Pro Bowl WR Less Than 24 Hours After Vikings Release

The Pittsburgh Steelers created one of early December’s biggest shocks by swiftly signing a 2-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, barely a day after the Minnesota Vikings officially released him. With the playoff race tightening, the Steelers made it clear they weren’t willing to waste a single moment strengthening their roster.

The 35-year-old receiver—who rose from an undrafted longshot to a Vikings icon—has amassed more than 8,000 yards, 60 touchdowns, and built a reputation for elite professionalism, discipline, and some of the sharpest route-running in the NFL. While he’s no longer in his twenties, his football IQ and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments still make him one of the most valuable veterans available for any contender.

The Steelers have struggled with inconsistency at the wide receiver position in recent weeks, especially with injuries forcing young players into roles far larger than their experience level. That’s why the organization moved quickly, reaching out the moment negotiations opened. Just hours later, the veteran WR was already at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex for medical evaluations and meetings with team leadership. News spread instantly across Pittsburgh, sending Steelers Nation into a wave of excitement.

During his first appearance with his new team, he delivered an emotional, attention-grabbing quote — honest, heartfelt, and powerful enough to spark NFL-wide buzz:

“I still have fire in me, still have that hunger to run into the fight every Sunday. And if a team believes I can help them go further, I’ll pour my whole heart into that journey. Pittsburgh didn’t just give me a chance — they made me feel like my heart had belonged here all along.”

Head coach Mike Tomlin also offered strong praise for the experienced newcomer:
“We’re always looking for players who can help us improve immediately. He’s the kind of guy who brings not only skill but leadership and the standards we value.”

With this timely and impactful addition, the Steelers sent a loud and clear message: they don’t just want to make the playoffs — they want to compete for real. If the 2-time Pro Bowl WR can still tap into the form that made him a star, this could become one of the most significant late-season acquisitions of the 2025 campaign — veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen.