On Kendricks - I suspect Flores may have weighed in on what his system wants/needs from the LB position. If Flores said "I really want Kendricks," they would have worked something out. The fact that he is being released speaks for itself.
On Thielen: what I have read/heard suggests that Thielen's main issue is wanting to play a more active role in the offense. Let's face it, the Vikes are JJ's team and with Hockenson emerging as a key target, Thielen is really the #3 receiver on this team. the buzz is that he wouldn't mind going somewhere where he can be at least the #2. But, as always, money will play a role in it. If no other team is offering him the $$ he wants, it's possible he stays with the Vikings.