The New Orleans Saints and wide receiver Michael Thomas have agreed on a record five-year, $100 million contract extension, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
The record breaking $100M deal that WR Michael Thomas & the Saints have agreed to includes $61M in New Guaranteed Money, which is the most in NFL history for a Non-QB offensive player. This massive extension was negotiated by @DavidMulugheta and Andrew Kessler of Athletes First.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 31, 2019
Thomas is now the new highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL, while the $61 million in new guaranteed money is the most in NFL history for a non-quarterback offensive player.
Thomas, who is on the final year of his rookie contract, had been holding out of training camp in search of a new deal. But now that he's come to terms on a deal, he will be expected to report to practice.
The 26-year-old has been one of the most productive wide receivers in the entire NFL since coming into the league in 2016 as a second-round pick. In each of his three seasons, he has topped 90 catches, 1,100 receiving yards, and has 23 total touchdowns in 42 games. He's coming off a career year in 2018, where he had 125 catches for 1,405 yards and nine touchdowns — all career-bests.
Thomas is expected to be a crucial part of a Saints offense which is short on reliable receivers behind him. Running back Alvin Kamara was the team's top receiver behind Thomas last season. Tre'Quan Smith, the second-most productive wideout, had just 28 catches for 427 yards. The Saints also recently released oft-injured wide receiver Cameron Meredith, leaving them even more in need at the position.
With Thomas locked up to a long-term deal, veteran quarterback Drew Brees will now have one of the best wide receivers in the league as his main receiving weapon for the remainder of his career.
Follow Us
Subscribe