The long, frustrating return from a 2020 injury for Michael Thomas was maybe the biggest storyline of the New Orleans Saints offseason. Initially limited in training camp while recovering from ankle surgery, Thomas suffered a setback late in the summer with a sudden hamstring issue that put him on ice for a little longer. He practiced on a limited basis leading up the season-opener with the Atlanta Falcons and was officially listed as questionable to play at all.
Then he hit the field during a real game for the first time in 602 days and caught 5 passes for 57 yards. After experiencing some early timing miscues and dropping an off-target pass from Jameis Winston, Thomas shook off the rust and went to work, scoring two critical touchdown receptions against top Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell Jr. Can’t Guard Mike is back.
We got further proof of that on Wednesday’s first injury report ahead of Week 2’s game with the Atlanta Falcons: Thomas was not listed at all. That’s a huge improvement after he was listed as limited in each of their three practice sessions a week ago with that hamstring issue. He practiced fully on Wednesday and, presumably, will continue to do so. It’s at least something to look out for.
So as far as the team is concerned, his injuries are behind him. Thomas is back. He’s converting first downs and hitting pay dirt and flexing on his opponent’s best corner again. He’ll continue to shake back and develop chemistry with Winston and reassert himself as the top option in the passing game. And the good thing is that the Saints won’t be rushing him into that role. Jarvis Landry is an accomplished veteran who Winston already trusts. Chris Olave is an exciting rookie who made the most of his opportunities in Week 1.
Thomas has gotten his body right. He’s put in the work, mended fences, and now he’s fixed a laser-focus on preparing for his next opponent. Buccaneers cornerback Carlton Davis was the last corner to play against him at full health, and that’s his next challenge. He’s done everything possible to rise to the occasion. Now let’s see it.
