Saints Have Opened Extension Talks With WR Michael Thomas

Saints GM Mickey Loomis confirmed that they’ve begun discussing a contract extension with WR Michael Thomas.

“Yeah, listen, we’ve had some conversations, and I like keeping that close to the vest until there’s something to report,” Loomis said via Mad Dog Sports Radio. “Look, we love what Mike’s done for us. He’s a fantastic player, one of the best at his position in the league, and hopefully we can keep him as a Saint for a longtime as well.”

Thomas is the biggest remaining priority for the Saints to extend this offseason after locking up DE Cameron Jordan to an extension last week.

Thomas is set to earn a base salary of $1.15 million in 2019, but it’s a strong possibility a new deal would make him the NFL’s highest-paid receiver. 

Thomas, 26, was drafted by the Saints in the second round out of Ohio State in 2016. He’s entering the final year of a four-year, $5.118 million contract that included $3.055 million guaranteed.

In 2018, Thomas played in all 16 games for the Saints and caught 125 passes for 1405 yards and nine touchdowns. Pro Football Focus rated Thomas as their No. 2 receiver out of 117 qualifying players.  

We’ll have more regarding a new deal for Thomas as the news is available.