Here are three potential destinations for two-time All-Pro Wide Receiver and former New Orleans Saint, Michael Thomas as the first week of free agency is almost to a close. After eight seasons together, the two sides are saying goodbye to each other as Thomas is set to have a new home next season. The second-round draft pick out of Ohio State quickly became one of the league’s most productive receivers. He twice led the NFL in receptions, setting a record with 149 catches in 2019.
Before free agency, the receiver took to X to dispute the characterization of his impending release. Thomas went on a rampage on social media, specifically toward columnist Jeff Duncan after sharing the news of his potential release. However, now it seems like his release would come either way despite his remarks. The 31-year-old wideout has been speculated as a salary cap casualty,
By cutting Thomas, the Saints immediately save $1.2 million against their salary cap. New Orleans was in no shape to pay for Thomas after suffering several injuries throughout his last contract. Thomas only played just 20 combined games over his last four seasons, including missing the entire 2021 season. However, he managed to return in 2023 to play 10 games and notched 39 catches for 448 yards and one touchdown.
For the first time in his career, Thomas will be playing elsewhere for the 2024 regular season. The Saints cut him with a post-June 1 designation but now there’s speculation on where he’s headed. Thomas becoming a free agent works for both sides through the ups and downs of the contracts and injuries. A fresh start on a new contract which may be cheap is something that may be on the radar.
Former All-Pro and OPOY WR Michael Thomas has been designated as a post-June 1 release from the Saints after failing a physical pic.twitter.com/IddhgKome4
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 13, 2024
Three Potential Destinations for Two-Time All-Pro Wide Receiver Michael Thomas
Miami Dolphins
Thomas teaming up with Pro Bowl receiver, Tyreek Hill for the Miami Dolphins could be imminent. Despite his track record of Thomas’ injuries, he has an illustrious amount of success in New Orleans. He hasn’t returned to his potential form, but when healthy and in a starting role, he could return to his old self. Hill made it clear by in his X post that Thomas should join him in Miami.
He could be the new third receiver teaming up with Hill and Jaylen Waddle to be another reliable for Tua Tagovailoa. However, Thomas failed his physical which led to his release from New Orleans could be a reason why he’s not 100% yet. If he’s not ready this upcoming season, he could just take a break to make his full comeback in 2024.
It would be a scary sight for secondaries covering Hill, Waddle and Thomas at once. Thomas’ presence could help spread the field for Tagovailoa to throw to anyone he wants.
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore has been attached to Thomas in a spiraling amount of rumors lately. The buzz only continues to intensify after the release of Odell Beckham Jr. which leaves a veteran hole to fill. Thomas could replace Beckham to fill that and could get back to his prime playing under Lamar Jackson. The Saints didn’t have much of a reliable quarterback under Derek Carr, so that may the reason why Thomas’ return campaign was short.
Thomas could be a quality veteran in a receiver room full of talent like Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. The Ravens could considerably be Super Bowl contenders with the addition of Thomas after their recent signing of running back Derrick Henry. Things look to be shaping up to bolster their offense.
Kansas City Chiefs
While it’s like they may add Beckham over Thomas after his release, there’s still a possibility they may add him. The Chiefs need WR help after the release of Marquez Valdes-Scantling so adding Thomas could boost their corps. The defending Super Bowl Champs have been dealing with this issue despite winning another ring. Thomas only had 14 drops in his NFL career so his steady hands could be useful to boost the Chiefs offense.
