FRISCO – The Dallas Cowboys may have an opportunity to upgrade at wide receiver this offseason with the addition of three-time Pro Bowler Michael Thomas through free agency. …assuming Thomas isn't such a “faded star”.
With Michael Gallup's future in Dallas up in the air after posting career-low numbers last season and seeing his role diminished on offense, the Cowboys could make an upgrade.
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Thomas is a big man at that position. Thomas, who was drafted by the Saints in the second round in 2016, hasn't reached his potential in New Orleans recently due to injuries, and amid controversy, he will miss the entire 2021 season due to an ankle issue.
But the former Ohio State Buckeyes pass catcher is a three-time Pro Bowler (2017, 2018, 2019), a two-time All-Pro and a first-team selection. Thomas was named the 2019 AP Offensive Player of the Year after setting career highs with 149 catches for 1,725 yards and averaging 107.8 yards per game. He also tied a career record with nine touchdowns.
Over his eight-year career, Thomas had 565 catches for 6,569 yards and 36 touchdowns on 743 targets in 83 games.
Spotrac projects the 31-year-old free agent deal to be worth $9.2 million on a one-year deal. NFL teams may not offer Thomas more than one season because of his recent injury history, playing in just 20 games over the past four years. …And I doubt Dallas wants to spend $9 million here.
But what about as a low-cost rejuvenation project? His role with the Cowboys could be much different than his role in New Orleans. Thomas probably won't see many double teams due to the presence of CeeDee Lamb. He was expected to be a part of the Saints' offense, but that won't be the case in Dallas.
He will also play with an elite quarterback in Dak Prescott. Thomas' most success came when Drew Brees was pitching to him in New Orleans.
If the Cowboys go the way Thomas does in free agency, that could be exactly what both player and team need to get over the hump.
