Michael Thomas Misses Saints' Open Practice Thursday With Hand Injury

Michael Thomas reached rarefied air this season by becoming the NFL's all-time single-season receptions leader, finishing Week 16 with 145 catches. But as things stand, the Saints superstar is entering the final weekend of the regular season with his status in some doubt.

After being limited Wednesday, Thomas did not participate in the open phase of Thursday's practice as he deals with a hand injury.

While Thomas is the kind of guy who could beast on chump defensive backs with one hand as well as most receivers could ever hope to do with two, this remains an item of concern for New Orleans, the No. 3 seed in the NFC despite holding an indentical record to the Packers and 49ers ahead of them.

Fortunately, the 5-10 Panthers are the opponent this week. But what Sean Payton and Co. ultimately decide to do with Thomas if it's a 50-50 call could prove to be a truly consquential decision with the postseason right around the corner.

The race for the NFC crown will come down to a handful of plays in a handful of games. With so much competition at the top, the Saints cannot like their chances if Thomas isn't ready to roll; don't expect this team to risk their top skill player's health if his condition doesn't improve between now and Sunday.