New Orleans Saints: Michael Thomas among NFL’s Top Second-Round Picks

The New Orleans Saints struck gold when they were able to steal wide receiver Michael Thomas in the second-round of the 2016 NFL Draft. Thomas immediately became a force on the field creating separation on his routes (Top 10), yards after catch ability (Top 6) and contested catch rate (69.2 percent). Several of the catches made in his rookie season took center stage of the highlight films on NFL.com and the New Orleans Saints website, most notably the touchdown catch vs. the 49ers.

Thomas set new rookie receiving records for the New Orleans Saints in receptions (92), receiving yards (1,137) and touchdowns (nine). His rookie performance was not only good for new Saints franchise records but also good for second-all-time among NFL rookies behind only former first-round pick and New York Giants NFL Superstar Odell Beckham Jr.

Thomas has already made his mark in the NFL with several awards and/or nominations:

• PFWA All-Rookie Team
• NFL Rookie of The Year (conversation)
• NFC South Rookie of The Year
• Vizio Top Value Performer (finalist)

For all the Fantasy Football players out there, Thomas was also among the top rookie fantasy players of 2016.

Most recently, Thomas was recognized by NFL.com as one of the top second-round draft picks since 2012, coming in at number six on the list.

Whether or not the Saints will draft another receiver in 2017 as the “Brandin Cooks replacement” is yet to be seen but the Saints already have one superstar at the position. Here’s to another great season Michael Thomas, keep making us proud!