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On February 7, 2010 in Super Bowl XLIV, New Orleans Saints running back Pierre Thomas had 9 carries for 30 yards and 6 receptions for 55 yards, including a 16 yard touchdown reception on a textbook screen pass in the third quarter. That touchdown reception gave the Saints their first touchdown and first lead of the game. Thomas led the Saints on the ground during the 2009 season with 793 rushing yards, averaging 5.4 yards per carry, both career highs.
In the revolving door of running backs since the Saints first signed Pierre Thomas in 2007, he has been the one constant. In Thomas' tenure in New Orleans from 2007 until now, he has shared the backfield with 15 other running backs. High profile, no profile, the man affectionately known as "PT Cruiser" has seen them all come and go. Although his numbers haven't been fantasy football worthy, his impact for the Saints has been undeniable. His impact in overtime of the NFC Championship Game against the Minnesota Vikings cannot be overstated either.
Thomas has 2 years remaining on his contract after signing a 2 year contract extension last March. He is due $2.1 million in 2015 and $2.2 million in 2016. Thomas is no longer at a point in his career where he can carry the Saints' running game on his shoulders, nor is he expected to be. When Pierre gets his opportunities, he usually picks up tough yards for solid gains. The first man, or two, usually aren't enough to bring Thomas down, and his heart, effort, and determination continue to make Thomas a hero and keep him beloved to Saints fans.
Thomas' contributions to the 2009 Saints season and subsequent Super Bowl XLIV title are unforgettable. His diving touchdown in the Super Bowl is one of the indelible images of that game. Thomas should one day be inducted into the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame, as he is arguably one of the best running backs ever to wear Black and Gold. At 30 years old and 8 seasons into his career, it would be surprising to see Thomas sign a new contract with the Saints once his current deal expires following the 2016 season. At his current workrate though, he may just last longer than most running backs. Pierre Thomas is already past his prime, but he can still pick up the tough yards like he always has.