Adam Thielen was supposed to sail off into the sunset in Minnesota after getting his highly anticipated homecoming last summer when the Vikings acquired him in a trade with the Carolina Panthers.

After struggling to carve out a niche for himself with the Vikings this season, however, Thielen requested his release last month. He was claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Steelers less than 24 hours later.

Now the 35-year-old receiver is ready to hang up the cleats for good.

After the Steelers recently lost to the Houston Texans in the first round of the playoffs, Thielen took to social media on Wednesday afternoon to announce his retirement from the NFL. HIs post on Instagram included various pictures of him with his wife Caitlin, his sons Asher and Hudson, and his daughter Cora.

“What a ride it has been!” Thielen wrote. “Have been blessed with so many great relationships and mentors over the years that I am forever grateful for!”

The underdog story has been told countless times since the Detroit Lakes native burst onto the scene more than a decade ago.

Originally signed by the Vikings as an undrafted free agent out of Minnesota State Mankato, Thielen bided his time on the practice squad, took advantage of his opportunities on special teams, and eventually went on to establish himself as a household name.

It’s only a matter of time before Thielen gets inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor. It also wouldn’t be a shock to see his No. 19 jersey hanging in the rafters at some point.

The only receivers in franchise history with more receptions than Thielen (542) are Cris Carter, Randy Moss, and Justin Jefferson. The only receivers in franchise history with more yards than Thielen (6,751) are Cris Carter, Randy Moss, Justin Jefferson, and Anthony Carter.

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