Thielen became a Steeler just one day after requesting to be waived by the Vikings to seek more playing opportunities in what is expected to be his final season in the league.

The 35-year-old did not play for Minnesota during their 26-0 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. This year, he started only four games and recorded eight receptions for 69 yards in 11 appearances during the 2025 season.

Thielen has spent the majority of his career in Minnesota since entering the NFL in 2013 as an undrafted free agent. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice during his career.

The Vikings released the wide receiver in March 2023, after which he joined the Carolina Panthers. He spent two seasons there before being traded back to Minnesota in August this year, in a deal involving multiple draft picks exchanged between the teams.

In total, Thielen has amassed 693 catches for 8,380 yards and 64 touchdowns over 173 regular season games, starting in 132 of them.

The Steelers also decided to releaseDarius Slay with just over a month remaining in the regular season. Although he is 34, ESPN reports he plans to continue playing and "is open to signing with other teams."

This cornerback has recorded 36 tackles and one fumble recovery in 10 games this season, starting nine of them.

Throughout his career, Slay has achieved 28 interceptions and 163 passes defended in 187 games with the Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles, and Pittsburgh. He established his reputation in Detroit, where he was drafted in 2013, earning three Pro Bowl selections during his tenure there.

He then earned another three consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 2021 to 2023, all while playing for the Eagles.

There is currently no information about where Slay might sign next.