After eight seasons together, the New Orleans Saints are saying goodbye to Michael Thomas, according to The Times-Picayune, with plans to release the accomplished but injury-riddled wide receiver ahead of 2024 NFL free agency.
Thomas himself has since taken to X (formerly Twitter) to dispute the characterization of his release in a series of accusatory posts, suggesting his pending exit was always going to be the result of a “one-year deal” as opposed to New Orleans ending his contract early. His remarks framed columnist Jeff Duncan, who shared the news of his release, as a “clown” trying to “ruin” his value.
Regardless, Thomas’ split from the Saints is coming, and it marks the end of what was once one of the NFL’s most dangerous partnerships. The 31-year-old wideout had long been speculated as a salary cap casualty. In fact, the Saints had already structured his contract in a way that foretold his departure this offseason, per Over the Cap. Technically due $12.4 million in 2024, his deal was designed to be extended or terminated by way of a post-June 1 release before the start of free agency on March 11. With Thomas officially fired, the Saints willsave $1.2 million in salary cap space for 2024.