Saints Legend Michael Thomas Draws Free Agent Interest from Ravens and Chargers

For the first time in his career, Michael Thomas found himself as a free agent during Week 1 of the NFL season. Selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Thomas quickly established himself as one of the league’s top receivers, recording 1,137 yards in his rookie season and achieving three consecutive 100-catch seasons from 2017 to 2019. During that period, he led the NFL with 378 receptions and 4,275 yards, adding 23 touchdowns to his impressive tally. Unfortunately, injuries derailed Thomas’s career, costing him three critical years.

After appearing in just 10 games from 2020 to 2022, Thomas showed some resilience in 2023, participating in 10 games and posting 39 receptions for 448 yards and one touchdown. While he performed adequately as a third option in the Saints’ offense, it wasn’t sufficient to secure his position, leading to his release after the season. As of now, Thomas remains a free agent, but that could change as teams are often eager to sign experienced receivers after Week 1.

As a vested veteran, Thomas’s base salary would have been fully guaranteed had he been on an NFL roster in Week 1. Given his extensive injury history, teams may be hesitant to rely heavily on him. However, now that Week 2 has arrived, franchises can sign Thomas without the concern of guaranteed money. The Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Chargers appear to be the most likely candidates for his services.

Ravens and Chargers Eyeing Michael Thomas

Following their Week 1 performance, Zay Flowers emerged as the Ravens’ leading wide receiver in targets, receiving 10 passes from Lamar Jackson, though he only converted six for 37 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs. While Jackson’s game was subpar, Flowers could benefit from being paired with more experienced pass-catchers. Though adding a superstar may be off the table, Michael Thomas could be the best available free agent and would fit well into Baltimore’s offensive scheme.

Historically, the Ravens have valued veteran receivers to enhance their passing attack. Last season, Odell Beckham served this purpose, finishing with 35 receptions for 565 yards and three touchdowns in his lone year with the team. The Ravens have yet to find a proper replacement, and Thomas could easily replicate that production within their system. While nobody expects him to return to his 2019 form, he would welcome the chance to join one of the league’s top offenses, led by the reigning NFL MVP.

A Boost for Justin Herbert

The Los Angeles Chargers secured a victory against the Las Vegas Raiders by employing a game plan favored by Jim Harbaugh, emphasizing strong rushing and solid defense. Although this strategy was effective against a struggling Raiders team, the Chargers will need to enhance their passing game to compete with the top teams in the AFC. Second-round pick Ladd McConkey showed promise in his NFL debut, but the rest of the receiving corps fell short of expectations.

With DJ Chark placed on injured reserve, the Chargers need a veteran presence in their passing attack. While Chark and Thomas have different playing styles, Thomas could provide quarterback Justin Herbert with a reliable target. Facing a challenging road to the playoffs, the Chargers could greatly benefit from Thomas’s experience and skills.

Source: https://lastwordonsports.com/nfl/2024/09/10/michael-thomas-free-agent-teams-ravens-chargers/