For him, this is an even better situation, according to Moats. “He’s not dealing with Taysom Hill being called your quarterback, Sean Payton leaving, the departure of Drew Brees, and your propensity for injuries.” I understand. We’re going to pay you little now, and we’ll see if you can regain the respect that this league previously gave you. That’s how I see it. The other receivers in that room will want to prove they’re better than Michael Thomas now that he’s affordable but proven.
The Saints cut Thomas in March, despite renegotiating his deal in 2023. His base pay and roster bonus were only expected to total $1.21 million and $2.2 million, respectively. During the previous season, Thomas caught 39 of 60 targets for 448 yards and one touchdown. Additionally, the team has communicated with Thomas, as reported by Zachary Smith of Steelers Now. It’s unclear if those are genuine discussions or if they will turn into something more.
Given his history of injuries, Thomas may sign for a lot less money than a player of his quality would typically sign for. He has yet to reclaim his form as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers at this point in his career after missing a significant amount of time due to an ankle injury. But the Steelers and other clubs are aware of what Thomas is capable of. Even yet, it’s doubtful that he will demand a huge salary to join the ideal team for his comeback.
Thomas may be a good fit for the Steelers, regardless of his market, given that the team has only missed one recorder in the slot. By including Thomas in the receiving corps with Roman Wilson and George Pickens, they may be able to stabilize the group.
Thomas is a three-time Pro Bowler, a two-time first-team All-Pro, and an exceptionally gifted player. In 2019, he was named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He also set records for receptions and yards once. But what’s the problem? Those wounds are the cause. Since 2019, Thomas hasn’t participated in a complete football season. 2020 saw him miss time due to a high ankle sprain; 2021 saw him miss all of 2021 following ankle surgery; 2022 saw him miss all but three weeks due to a foot ailment; and last year, he missed seven games due to a knee issue. In 2020, he got into a brawl with a teammate; in 2023, he was taken into custody for violence.
