If there is a concern that Michael Thomas fully isn’t aware of what’s in store for him this season by opposing defenses, eliminate it. If nothing else, Thomas has shown that he isn’t just a quick study, but that he’s capable of devouring while he’s processing, something he has done.
The second-year receiver, who unquestionably is the Saints’ No. 1 receiver, has accepted and risen to this challenge as smoothly as he acclimated to the NFL game in 2016, a season in which he set franchise rookie records for receptions (92), receiving yards (1,137) and receiving touchdowns (nine).
He entered training camp bigger (220 pounds, up from 210). He’s stronger. He’s just as physical if not more so (pity the cornerback who’s pinned behind Thomas with the ball in flight). He’s a better route runner (among the ones he appears to have perfected, the slant route). And he’s even more aware of what is his role among the receiving corps.
When the Saints traded Brandin Cooks to New England this offseason, it left Thomas as the receiver on the roster with the most-decorated NFL single season.
“I have to have very great attention to detail,” Thomas said. “I have to have great discipline. I have to be in the right place at the right time for Drew (Brees) or whoever is behind center. And also, I have to lead this group better and be the guy that sets the momentum. I can’t be that guy that lacks many qualities, I have to do my job at a high level.
“(As a leader), complete honesty. I think honesty is what everyone needs. Those guys in the other group have to be able to trust you and also you have to lead by example. So when your number is called you have to make that play, (and) you have to keep making that play to where they know you’re going to make that play, and they want to follow you.”
That would seem to be a ton of water to carry for a 24-year-old. But almost everything about Thomas suggested he was ready from the moment the Saints drafted him in the second round, No. 47 overall.
