Michael Thomas AWOL from Saints camp amid contract talks, report says

Gabrielle McMillen

Michael Thomas AWOL from Saints camp amid contract talks, report says image

Michael Thomas is a no-show thus far at the Saints' training camp.

ESPN reported Thursday that the receiver hadn't arrived at the team facility with the rest of the players on the eve of training camp starting. His absence comes as he seeks a new contract.

Thomas, 26, and the Saints have been working toward a resolution for weeks, but negotiations appear to be at a standstill, per ESPN

The report also noted that Thomas could be fined $40,000 for each day of training camp he misses under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Thomas is under contract for this season, the final year of his rookie deal, which is slated pay him $1,148,041 unless an extension is reached.

Last season, Thomas had an NFL-best 125 catches for 1,405 receiving yards (third in the NFC) and nine touchdowns.

He reportedly is seeking a deal worth $22 million per season — making him the first receiver to receive more than $20 million annually. However, the Saints are more comfortable around the $19 million mark. Thomas reportedly agreed to lower his asking price to $20 million a year.

The Saints receiver was critical of the Cowboys earlier this week, saying running back Ezekiel Elliott deserves to be paid after the team was listed as the most valuable franchise worldwide on Forbes' annual list.

 

Gabrielle McMillen