Awesome New Orleans Saints WR Michael Thomas was hardly so awesome a season ago, catching a mere 40 passes and scoring nary a touchdown in his disappointing seven games. In 2019, Thomas broke the NFL record with 149 receptions, covering 1,725 yards. He also scored nine touchdowns for the third time in four seasons and was the first wide receiver off the fantasy board the next season.
It went badly.
Thomas may make his 2021 debut on Monday Night Football in Week 7, on the road against the Seattle Seahawks, and fantasy football managers probably have little idea what to expect.
While few would debate Thomas' extensive talents, the fact is that the Saints have hardly been one of the stronger offenses this season. In fact, they entered Week 6 with more yards from scrimmage than only three other teams -- and nobody confuses the Jets, Bears or Texans for playoff contenders.
The Saints are just outside the top 10 in points scored, however, as enigmatic QB Jameis Winston, despite averaging a mere 23 passing attempts per game, has played efficient football. Winston has done so sans reasonable NFL-caliber wide receivers. The Saints rank fourth in the league in rushing attempts and they play strong defense.