Since Michael Thomas came into the league, he’s been productive. 2019 was by far the best season of his career. After signing a contract extension with the Saints that Summer, he set a single season record by catching 149 passes, a record held by Hall of Fame wide receiver, Marvin Harrison. For his efforts, Mike was named Offensive Player of the Year that season. Since that season, he’s had a hard time staying on the field because of injuries. He injured his ankle last year and even stated he was playing injured because he had a feeling it was Drew Brees’ final season playing football (which it was). Today, the news came out that he will miss the start of the upcoming season after undergoing ankle surgery.
When he’s healthy, he’s one of the more serviceable wide receivers in the game. Mike has never been the fastest guy. However, what’s made him productive is how he positions himself to get the football. This is one of the more physical wide receivers at the line of scrimmage. Jamming him as a defender isn’t the smartest idea because he’s strong enough to handle it. Mike plays what I call “bully ball”. You could have perfect coverage on him and he still finds a way to make the catch. One thing he doesn’t receive enough credit for is how crafty he is. I’ve seen him find ways to keep himself in bounds with the toe taps! Or as Nate Burleson likes to say, “toe drag swag”. Mike does everything. He wants to play physical, he’ll be physical or if he wants to play that finesse style, that’s what you’ll get. What’s impressed me the most is how he’s able to play in the slot. That’s normally where smaller guys play. Seeing a bigger guy work from the slot is remarkable.
This is a tough hit for the Saints offense. They already lost Drew to retirement. Not having Mike on the field would increase the challenge for either Jameis Winston or Taysom Hill. The Saints lost Emmanuel Sanders and tight ends Jared Cook and Josh Hill this offseason. It’s a position I’m sure they didn’t see themselves in. Here’s to a speedy recovery after surgery for Mike. I hope he can get back on the field soon.
