According to reports, the New Orleans Saints are anticipated to part ways with a key offensive player prior to the onset of free agency.
It's reported that the New Orleans Saints are preparing to part ways with Michael Thomas, a standout wide receiver who has left an indelible mark on the team's history. According to Jeff Duncan of The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate, the Saints are set to release Thomas before the onset of free agency next Wednesday.
The decision seems imminent, with multiple sources indicating that Thomas's departure is not a matter of if, but when.
Thomas, who is 31 years old, enjoyed a remarkable start to his NFL career from 2016 to 2019, establishing himself as one of the league's premier offensive talents. During this period, he consistently surpassed 90 catches and 1,000 receiving yards each season.
The wide receiver led the league in receptions in both 2018 and 2019, setting a single-season record with 149 catches in the latter year. He was honored as the Offensive Player of the Year in 2019 and earned his second First-team All-Pro selection.
However, injuries have plagued Thomas in recent years, hindering his ability to maintain his exceptional performance. He missed significant portions of the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to injuries, including the entirety of the 2021 season with an ankle injury. Consequently, Thomas's on-field availability has become increasingly uncertain.
Given the Saints' financial constraints and Thomas's injury history, parting ways appears to be the most practical course of action for the team as they approach the new league year.
Throughout his career, Thomas has amassed impressive statistics, totaling 565 receptions for 6,569 yards and 36 touchdowns. Additionally, he has made significant contributions in postseason play, recording 43 receptions for 566 yards and four touchdowns across seven playoff games.
| POLL | ||
8 MARS | 69 ANSWERS According to reports, the New Orleans Saints are anticipated to part ways with a key offensive player prior to the onset of free agency. Is Michael Thomas still a Pro Bowl caliber WR? | ||
| yes | 24 | 34.8 % |
| No | 45 | 65.2 % |
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