Report: New Orleans Saints ‘more than open’ to trading Michael Thomas

According to a report, the New Orleans Saints are “more than open” to the idea of trading star wide receiver Michael Thomas.

“It wasn’t until the team’s June minicamp that Thomas finally agreed to have surgery on his ankle,” wrote Larry Holder of The Athletic. “Thomas ‘blew off’ the Saints medical staff and the team is more than open to trading Thomas, according to sources.”

Thomas has spent his entire pro career with New Orleans. It sounds like the organization is frustrated with his unwillingness to make his own health a priority. He’s expected to miss the start of the 2021 season while he recovers from his ankle surgery.

If the Saints were to trade Thomas, it’s safe to assume they’d want a handsome return. The 28-year-old is one of the best offensive players in football, and New Orleans’ system would have a very different look without him.

In the 2020 season, Thomas’ ankle injury held him out for most of the regular season. He played in just seven games.

The year prior, he played a full season. He led the league in receptions (149), receiving yards (1,725) and receiving yards per game (107.8). He also brought in nine touchdowns.

The former second-round pick is undoubtedly a star, and if he does get moved, it could change the landscape of the 2021 season.