When the New Orleans Saints take the field on Monday Night Football versus the Las Vegas Raiders, they'll be without Drew Brees' favorite target. Despite his efforts to play on Monday, Michael Thomas has officially been ruled out for Week 2, per ESPN's Field Yates.

Seeing that Thomas wasn't able to log a single practice during the week, it isn't a surprise to see him sidelined this week. The All-Pro wide receiver suffered what was diagnosed as a high-ankle sprain in Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

After his diagnosis was revealed, it was reported that Thomas is expected to miss multiple weeks. However, by not placing him on injured reserve, the Saints leave the door open for him to return as soon as Week 3.

With the loss of Thomas against the Raiders, Emmanuel Sanders is expected to assume the No. 1 role in New Orleans' passing attack. Meanwhile, both Alvin Kamara and Jared Cook will likely see expanded roles in the offense until Thomas returns.

In the Saints' season-opening victory over the Buccaneers, the Saints receiver was limited to three receptions for 17 yards on five targets. It was Thomas' first game since Week 6 of the 2017 season where he recorded fewer than four receptions.

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JC Latham (Alabama), Chris Braswell (Alabama not Jaguars), Cornelieus Johnson (Michigan) in action behind a New Orleans Saints logo with a 2024 NFL Draft background.

Dylan Bruton ·

A season ago, Thomas led the NFL in receptions (149) and receiving yards (1,725). The Ohio State product broke Marvin Harrison's single-season reception record by six receptions in 2019.

Given the fact Thomas is dealing with a high-ankle sprain, it isn't a surprise to see him sidelined for at least a week. Comparatively, Saquon Barkley missed three games for the New York Giants last season with a similar injury.