On Wednesday, Michael Thomas became the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history. The New Orleans Saints handed him a five-year, $100 million dollar contract that included $61 million dollars in guaranteed money.
Despite being one of the best, most reliable pass-catchers in the league, it was inevitable that some would feel Thomas was overpaid. Of course, Skip Bayless was one of the first to bash the mega-extension.
"This is another shocking overpay to me. Kirk Cousins was a shocking overpay, Carson Wentz was a shocking overpay, Todd Gurley was an even more shocking overpay, and here we go again. Michael Thomas is really good, but is he all-time great?" — @RealSkipBayless pic.twitter.com/lBtnUeKIZJ
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) July 31, 2019
There aren't many people who regard the former Buckeye as the best receiver in the league, but it's hard to argue with his production and overall importance to the Saints offense. He posted 125 receptions for 1,405 yards, along with nine touchdowns.
Although these read as elite stats, even more telling is his production in key moments. Four of Thomas' touchdowns came during the fourth quarter in a one-score game, with six of them being caught while the Saints trailed. Drew Brees undeniably leaned primarily on Thomas and Alvin Kamara on third-down plays, so much so that opponents began to double both throughout the game.
The former second-round pick also led the league in receptions and absorbed a ridiculous 28 percent target share. All of these show how crucial Thomas is to the Saints offensive success, and overall team success.
Some might argue that a $100 million dollar contract for a non-quarterback or edge rusher is ridiculous, but it's clear to see Michael Thomas's importance. Without him, the Saints' offense grinds to halt, and along with it, their championship hopes.