The New Orleans Saints officially designated wide receiver Michael Thomas a post-June 1 release. Thomas now reaches the open market and is free to sign with a team of his choosing. Thomas is a potentially intriguing reclamation project for a franchise looking to upgrade their pass-catching corps.
Thomas has struggled with injury in recent years. In 2023, he recorded 39 receptions for 448 receiving yards in 10 regular-season appearances. Thomas averaged 11.5 yards per catch, his highest output in that category since his 2019 record-breaking season.
Thomas should be available on a short-term, low-cost, incentive-heavy deal. It's a low-risk, high-reward flier that could pay major dividends for a contender. With Thomas' release now official, we've swiftly identified three potential fits for his services on the open market.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
The Bengals are undergoing some changes at the wide receiver position. Superstar playmaker Tee Higgins requested a trade after being slapped with the franchise tag. The Bengals will attempt to retain Higgins and convince him to play out the 2024 campaign on a one-year fully guaranteed contract.
More relevant to the Thomas discussion is Tyler Boyd, who is a free agent and isn't expected to return to Cincinnati. Boyd has been the Bengals' primary slot receiver since 2016. His anticipated departure creates a need at that spot. The Bengals still possess more than $45 million in cap space, and while they're also looking for a right tackle to replace Jonah Williams, they can afford a one-year flier on Thomas as they prepare to compete with the Kansas City Chiefs for the AFC title in 2024.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman isn't afraid to take fliers on veterans. Last season alone, Roseman added Kevin Byard and Julio Jones in separate midseason moves. Neither acquisition worked out, and Byard was recently released, but I don't expect Roseman to alter his team-building approach. He's always been a risk-taker.
Jones is a free agent and won't be back. The Eagles signed DeVante Parker, but he's more of an X-type backup for A.J. Brown on the perimeter. A slot-only receiver that's capable of playing alongside Brown and DeVonta Smith in three-receiver sets with regularity could really help transform Nick Sirianni's offense. The Eagles should leave no stone unturned after the 2023 campaign fell apart in shocking fashion. Thomas would be a quality addition.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
The Steelers have parted ways with Diontae Johnson and Allen Robinson this offseason. Johnson was traded to the Carolina Panthers, and Robinson was a cap casualty. Together, their departures free up more than 1,350 offensive snaps at receiver from last season.
General manager Omar Khan signed Russell Wilson to be the new starting quarterback. The only proven receiver Wilson and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith are inheriting is George Pickens. The Steelers arguably have the worst group of pass-catchers across the league as currently constructed. More is required. They've shown reported interest in Boyd from Cincinnati, so a slot receiver appears to be on the agenda. Perhaps Khan will shift focus to Thomas now that he's available.
