New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas should start Week 1.
After dealing with a hamstring injury, there has been some positive news for New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas. On September 1, Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com reported that he is hearing “positive” news regarding Thomas, and he would be surprised if Thomas did not start Week 1.
This is tremendous news for Thomas and the Saints. Thomas has struggled with injuries in recent years. In 2020, he appeared in only seven games due to ankle injuries. In limited action, he recorded 40 receptions for 438 yards, and he posted an exceptional PFF grade of 85.2.
During the following offseason, he underwent ankle surgery. Unfortunately, he suffered a setback and missed the entire 2021 season.
Michael Thomas Will Lead an Improved WR Group for Saints
On the field, Thomas has been one of the most impactful wide receivers in the NFL. Thomas led the league in receptions in both 2018 (125) and 2019 (149).
Last season, the Saints struggled to get production from the wide receiver position; they were last in the NFL in receiving yards per game (202.2). This season, their wide receiver room will look drastically different. Thomas is returning to the lineup, and the front office added Chris Olave and Jarvin Landry during the offseason.
The Saints selected Olave in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. In 2021, he had 65 receptions for 936 yards and 13 touchdowns at Ohio State.
Landry is a five-time Pro Bowl selection, who led the league in receptions in 2017 (112). Last season, he had 52 receptions for 570 yards and two touchdowns.
In addition, Jameis Winston will be back at quarterback. Last season, the Saints had a 5-2 record with Winston as the starting quarterback, and they had a 4-6 record without him. He was absent for the team’s final 10 games due to an injury of his own.
The Saints’ offense could put up big numbers in their Week 1 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.
