Last week we reported that the Saints star receiver, Michael Thomas, wanted to become the first $100 million receiver in NFL history, and that he was willing to hold out until he got it.
Many scoffed at his position, yet with the team offering around $18 – $19 million per year over five years, they were close.
Well this morning we realized that they’re now closer than close, as Ian Rapoport is reporting that the two parties have agreed on a five-year, $100 million deal, making Thomas the highest paid receiver in the game.
The #Saints & star WR Michael Thomas have reached a blockbuster, 5 yr $100M extension. This contract makes Thomas the highest paid WR in NFL History. He’s also the first non-QB offensive player to sign a $100M contract. Agents @DavidMulugheta & Andrew Kessler negotiated the deal.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 31, 2019
Mind blowing!
Not only does he become the highest paid receiver in NFL history, he also becomes, per Rapoport, “the first non-QB offensive player to sign a $100M contract.” And it’s well deserved as Thomas has been one of the best at his position over his three years in the league. In 2016, he had 92 catches for 1,137 yards and 9 TDs. In 2017 he had 104 catches for 1,245 yards and 5 TDs, and ended up making the Pro Bowl. Last season was his best to date, going for 125 catches (tops in the NFL), 1,405 yards and 9 TDs en route to being named First Team All-Pro.
This massive contract extension locks up a major part of the offense for Drew Brees, who, at 40, showed that he’s still more than capable of playing at a high level. Brees will be a free agent after this upcoming season.
Add in Alvin Kamara and his 3,146 total yards and 31 TDs in his first two seasons, and Brees has what he needs to make it through another season. Kamara becomes a free agent after 2020, so expect that deal to be big money too.
Looks like it will be raining green in New Orleans for a while.
