The Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs may compete for $100 million free agent Michael Thomas this summer. According to one betting source, the Dallas Cowboys are the favorites to sign the veteran before the 2024 season. Before injuries began to dominate his career, the 31-year-old was one of the league’s greatest receivers statistically. However, he still has plenty of gas to provide to a team that still requires an extra wideout option.Thomas will not be a starter again unless he demonstrates his ability to stay healthy and consistent. During the 2019 season, he set an NFL record with 149 receptions, racking up a league-leading 1,725 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He isn’t the same player, but he provides any team with an extra option to keep the wideout position open and in rotation, relieving pressure on the quarterback in the pocket. This means that Thomas isn’t the worst option, but he’s not the best when compared to trade options such as Brandon Aiyuk and Courtland Sutton
These receivers are what few clubs, including the Chiefs and Ravens, have cap space for. The two teams are one move or step away from having a full roster in their quest for the Super Bowl. It shouldn’t come as a surprise if any of these teams start calling for Thomas’ services. However, injuries are always a concern, which is what has kept most teams from providing him a deal this summer.
The best he can hope for before the start of the season is a one-year contract to demonstrate that he can still be effective in the absence of ailments. Here are some additional possible locations for Michael Thomas.
Ravens and Chiefs Could Fight Over $100 million Free Agent. Michael Thomas: Other Potential Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
It wouldn’t be the worst option given that Justin Herbert is entering this season sans Mike Williams and Keenan Allen. Ladd McConkey is the only promising receiver on the depth chart based on his performance at practice, although he is a rookie. Thomas’ addition would bring the experience that players like Josh Palmer and Quentin Johnson lack on the depth chart. DJ Chark is a stopgap solution, but Thomas’ addition should give this offensive some continuity over the next four years.
New Orleans Saints
The prospects of a reunion are modest, but not impossible. Sean Payton is no longer around, so returning to work for Dennis Allen should be no problem. The Saints have two talented wide receivers, Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, but they need consider who will fill the No. 3 spot. Thomas’ return would be sensible in terms of cap space, as long as New Orleans understands how to alter his deal to keep him for one year.
The Carolina Panthers, led by Dave Canales, have worked hard to find the strongest supporting cast for Bryce Young. The acquisitions of Diontae Johnson and Rashaad Penny could give the second-year quarterback more time in the pocket. However, if they want to restore their playoff berth, they will need one more receiver to bolster their attack. Thomas may be the final piece that leads them there.
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