Thielen (ankle) didn't participate in the open portion of Tuesday's practice and is expected to be sidelined for Thursday's game against the Steelers, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
While the Vikings haven't officially ruled Thielen out for Week 14, head coach Mike Zimmer told Tomasson prior to practice that the wideout would only return from his high-ankle sprain at some point this season. The fact that Zimmer is talking about Thielen's status in that manner implies that he's unlikely to suit up Thursday, so expect the receiver to officially receive the "out" tag at the conclusion of Wednesday's practice. His projected absence should clear the way for K.J. Osborn and Dede Westbrook to handle more reps alongside No. 1 receiver Justin Jefferson.