Key Takeaways:
– The Dallas Cowboys may be the best landing spot for free agent and former New Orleans Saints star, Michael Thomas, says ESPN analyst Matt Bowen.
– Although Thomas’ injury history is a concern, he could potentially beat out Jalen Tolbert for the third receiver role next to CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks at the Cowboys.
– Despite his decreasing production in recent years, Thomas’ proven track record could provide a reliable third receiving option for the Dallas team.
Dallas Cowboys’ Smart Move for Experienced Receiver
Despite a quiet off-season so far, the Dallas Cowboys have topped the list of potential landing spots for former New Orleans Saints’ star receiver, Michael Thomas, as outlined by ESPN’s Matt Bowen. It’s a move seen by some as a smart way to fill the gap left by the departure of Michael Gallup, a reliable veteran receiver.
Bowen’s analysis, published on May 20, 2024, discusses possible team fits for remaining NFL free agents and trade candidates. In it, he profiles Thomas’ skill and versatility on the field.
Michael Thomas’ Potential Role in Dallas Cowboys
Bowen acknowledges the injury-ridden past of Thomas but maintains his belief in the 31-year-old’s ability to work across multiple levels of the field when in top form. He suggested that Thomas, who has played just 20 games over the past four seasons, could make a significant impact on a one-year deal with the Cowboys.
Bowen predicts, “In Mike McCarthy’s offense, Thomas could compete with Jalen Tolbert for the No. 3 role alongside CeeDee Lamb and Brandin Cooks.” He compliments the wide receiver’s ability and adds that Thomas would be a valuable addition, capable of playing as a boundary X and possessing standout abilities in working the seams out of the slot.
Michael Thomas’ Track Record
Drawing on his record, Thomas’ 31-year-old performance may seem a little less spectacular compared to his impressive three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro status. But there’s no denying his capabilities. His career highs in 2019 saw him score 1,725 yards with 149 catches and nine touchdowns in 16 games. His performance since then, however, has dropped, not reaching 500 yards since 2019.
Questions Surrounding Thomas’ Contract Value
Question marks now hang over the kind of contract Thomas will command during this off-season. He signed a five-year, $96.2 million contract with New Orleans, scheduled to last until 2024. However, this deal was overridden in 2023 when Thomas struck a new two-year deal, which was essentially a one-year, $10 million pact, nullifying the remainder of his previous lucrative commitment.
New Orleans let Thomas go as a post-June 1 cut. Since then, the veteran, who ended the last season on injured reserve due to a knee injury, has not sealed a deal with any new team. But with Gallup’s performance last season – 34 receptions for 418 yards and 2 touchdowns – and assuming Thomas’ health pulls through, it seems reasonable to anticipate Thomas being able to surpass these figures.
Conclusion
Whether or not the Cowboys take a chance on Michael Thomas, the suggested move certainly has merit. With Thomas’ proven experience, he could add a reliable, versatile weapon to Dallas’ arsenal, filling the void left by Gallup’s departure. However, as with any sports decision, only time will tell what the Cowboys’ next moves will be.