According to reports from The Times-Picayune, the New Orleans Saints have made the decision to release wide receiver Michael Thomas ahead of the 2024 NFL free agency period. The move comes after eight seasons of partnership with the accomplished but injury-riddled player.

In a series of tweets on X (formerly Twitter), Thomas disputed the characterization of his release, suggesting that his pending exit was always planned as a "one-year deal" rather than an early termination of his contract by the Saints. He directed accusatory remarks towards columnist Jeff Duncan, who first shared the news of his release, branding him as a "clown" attempting to diminish his value.

Despite the controversy surrounding his departure, Thomas' split from the Saints signifies the end of one of the NFL's most formidable partnerships. The 31-year-old wide receiver had long been speculated as a potential salary cap casualty. In preparation for this, the Saints had already structured his contract in a way that indicated his departure was likely this offseason, as reported by Over the Cap.

Technically owed $12.4 million in 2024, Thomas' contract was designed to be extended or terminated via a post-June 1 release before the start of free agency on March 11. By officially releasing Thomas, the Saints will immediately save $1.2 million against their 2024 salary cap.

Drafted as a second-round pick from Ohio State in 2016, Thomas quickly established himself as one of the league's most productive possession wide receivers. In his first four seasons, he consistently surpassed 90 catches and 1,100 receiving yards. Thomas even led the NFL in receptions twice, setting a record with 149 catches in 2019 while also amassing over 1,700 yards that season.

However, injuries have plagued Thomas over the last four seasons, limiting him to only 20 combined games. He missed the entire 2021 season and appeared in just three games the following year. During the 2023 season, Thomas played the most games in four years, featuring in 10 contests. However, he only managed 39 catches for 448 yards and one touchdown.

The parting of ways between Thomas and the Saints marks a significant change for both parties. As Thomas looks towards his future in the NFL, the Saints will have valuable cap space to utilize in the upcoming free agency period.

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