With Tom Brady now in retirement, the New Orleans Saints have a great opportunity in 2023 to get back to the playoffs for the first time in three years.

The Saints will need all hands on deck to make that happen, and wide receiver Michael Thomas is one of the most important pieces. He was at practice on Tuesday simulating some routes off the side and worked with all three quarterbacks as well.

Thomas is currently working his way back from a foot injury that limited him to just three games in 2022. Saints head coach Dennis Allen mentioned he's pleased with where Thomas is in his recovery and that the plan is to have him ready by the start of training camp. 

“That’s our hope and our expectation,” Allen said. “I wish I had the crystal ball to say exactly what he’ll be ready to do. All our energy is focused on getting him ready to go in training camp. We’re excited about it. Mike’s an important piece on our offense. When he’s playing at the level he’s capable of playing at, we’re a much better offense.”

Thomas has had a terrible stretch when it comes to injuries. A lingering ankle issue cost him nine games in 2020. He would have surgery to fix his ankle the following summer and started training camp on the PUP list. Unfortunately, Thomas suffered a setback in his recovery and missed the entire 2021 season. 

Before these injuries, Thomas made three consecutive Pro Bowls (2017-2019) and was a two-time first-team All-Pro (2018, 2019). He had over 1,000 yards and each of his first four seasons and led the NFL in receptions twice (2018, 2019).

So, as you can see, Thomas is a stud when he's healthy. However, it seems like it was eons ago when that was the case and the Saints are hoping Thomas can finally get back to making plays instead of rehab appointments. 

Feature image via Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports