Michael Thomas Contract Issues Cause Saints Star WR to Hold Out at Start of Camp

Michael Thomas could be in line to become one of football's highest-paid wide receivers. He's just waiting for the offer.

Currently playing on his rookie contract, due to make a base salary of just $1.148 million, he's more than due to be paid the big bucks. And now, according to Mike Garafolo, Michael Thomas was a no-show at Saints training camp Thursday morning as he pines for a fatter paycheck.

#Saints players reported to training camp this morning and WR Michael Thomas was not among them, sources tell me and @RapSheet. After 125 catches last season, he’s seeking a new deal and hasn’t gotten one yet.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 25, 2019

Thomas was arguably the best receiver in the league last year. His 125 receptions topped the NFL, and he hauled in passes at an 85% clip. He also picked up 1,405 yards and 9 touchdown grabs.

The former Ohio State star is seeking a deal that would seat him in the upper-echelon of wideouts. The deal would likely be within the $16-19 million range annually, which would potentially make him the highest-paid receiver in NFL history based on average annual value.

Saints WR Michael Thomas, in search of a new deal, still has not reported to the team's training facility, per source. No practice until Friday, but no Thomas today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 25, 2019

Full practices don't begin until Friday, and just how long Thomas holds out has suddenly become a leading subplot. If he refuses to show up before a new deal is agreed, all eyes will be on the Saints to throw something together promptly before they lose control of the narrative.

Thomas is clearly their best receiver, and the trio of Thomas, Alvin Kamara and Drew Brees makes the Saints one of the most formidable offenses in the game.

Do the right thing, New Orleans. Lock this guy up before this situation extends further into camp and creates an uncomofortable distraction.