As expected, Pro Bowler Michael Thomas will begin 2021 on the Saints’ physically unable to perform (PUP) list, costing him, at minimum, the first six weeks of the regular season. Still recovering from offseason ankle surgery, Thomas did not participate in training camp this summer.
Coach Sean Payton voiced his displeasure that Thomas waited until June to get surgery, mirroring a tactic used by Chicago Bulls legend Scottie Pippen, who, in the midst of a contract dispute, intentionally held off on surgery knowing it would cost him regular-season games. According to reports, the disgruntled wide receiver essentially “ghosted” the Saints this offseason, dodging phone calls from coaches and training staff until the sides finally met to hash out their differences in a closed-door meeting earlier this month. The Saints are hoping Thomas will be available when they return from their Week 6 bye, though obviously the 28-year-old will have to avoid setbacks in order to meet that expectation.
Listen to your favorite gameday hits on Audacy's Tailgate Rock station, and buy everything you’ll need for a killer pregame party here
Entering Year 2 of a five-year, $96.25-million extension, Thomas appeared in just seven games during his injury-abbreviated 2020, accruing a 40-438-0 receiving line over that span. A year earlier, the Ohio State alum had set the NFL’s single-season record for catches with 149. Thomas ranks fourth among all-time Saints in career receiving yards (5,950) and catches (510), trailing Marques Colston, Eric Martin and Joe Horn in both categories.
With Thomas shelved for the first month and change, the Saints figure to employ the receiving trio of Tre’Quan Smith, Deonte Harris and preseason standout Marquez Callaway in three-wide sets. Running back Alvin Kamara will also be heavily involved in the Saints’ passing attack with Taysom Hill a candidate for his usual gadget role as a hybrid receiver/red-zone QB.
The Saints recently evacuated New Orleans amid Hurricane Ida, which has wiped out power throughout the city. Payton said Tuesday he expects the Saints to be displaced for at least the next month with the team temporarily taking up residence in Dallas.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram