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Wide receiver Michael Thomas may have several million reasons to rejoice soon. ESPN’s Dianna Russini reported on Tuesday afternoon that the New Orleans Saints are progressing in their contract extensions with Thomas, and are comfortable making him the highest paid wide receiver in the game. Russini added a deal is expected prior to training camp.
Contract extension negotiations between New Orleans and WR Michael Thomas are progressing. Sources say Saints are comfortable making him the highest paid receiver in the game. #Saints
— Dianna (@diannaESPN) June 18, 2019
Thomas is currently playing out the final year of his original rookie deal from 2016, and General Manager Mickey Loomis acknowledged in an interview with Adam Schein on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Sports Radio that the team had some conversations regarding the extension. In 2018, Thomas set an NFL record for having the most receptions of any player throughout the first three years of his career. He also set the single-season franchise record for most receptions (125) and receiving yards (1,405).
According to Over The Cap, the current highest-paid wide receiver annually is Odell Beckham Jr., coming in at $18 million average yearly. To get Thomas, who just turned 26 in March, in that $18-$19 million window would be a good spot for both sides involved. Of course, we’ll see how things progress.