In 2019, Michael Thomas set an NFL record with an astounding 149 receptions, that even with an extra game, might not be broken in some time. He was a no-brainer fantasy first round pick in 2020 before his career crumbled. He played in seven games that season despite suffering a high ankle sprain in Week One, averaged 60 yards per game, and scored zero touchdowns. Last year he suffered through a malady of issues related to his lower leg and never came close to being healthy. Now Thomas is app arently closer to 100% and ready to be a difference-maker for New Orleans though he'll have to share targets with rookie Chris Olave, veteran Jarvis Landry, and all-everything running back Alvin Kamara.
The last time Thomas played a full season, future Hall of Famer Drew Brees was his quarterback. Playing with Jameis Winston is a major downgrade and there's no chemistry established thus far. Assuming each of Olave, Landry, and Kamara catch at least 50 passes, there's likely nowhere near the 151 targets he averaged in his first four seasons, nor 100+ receptions.
An 80 catch season with 1,000+ yards and 6 touchdowns would be considered a success for the former All-Pro, and with those stats, Thomas would be well worth starting in fantasy leagues. Assuming he remains healthy throughout the preseason, the lead Saints receiver is worthy of a mid-round pick as a WR2 in PPR leagues.
Is Michael Thomas worthy of a pick in the middle rounds of 2022 drafts? Find out where he ranks in our'2022 Fantasy Football Rankings.