Cowboys Free Agency: Cut Gallup, Sign 3-Time Pro Bowler Michael Thomas of New Orleans Saints?
FRISCO - The Dallas Cowboys might have an opportunity to upgrade at wide receiver this offseason through free agency by adding three-time Pro Bowler Michael Thomas. ... assuming Thomas isn't too much of a "faded star.''
With Michael Gallup's future with Dallas up in the air after registering career lows last season and watching his role in the offense reduced, the Cowboys could upgrade.
Thomas is a big-name guy at the position. Drafted by the Saints in the second round in 2016, Thomas hasn't reached his potential in New Orleans lately because of injuries - missing the entire 2021 season with an ankle issue amid some controversy as well.
But the former Ohio State Buckeyes pass-catcher is a three-time Pro Bowler (2017, 2018, 2019) and a two-time first-team All-Pro. Thomas was named the 2019 AP Offensive Player of the Year when he registered career highs with 149 catches, 1,725 yards and averaged 107.8 yards per game. He also tied his career mark with nine touchdowns.
Over his eight-year career, Thomas has registered 565 catches on 743 targets for 6,569 yards and 36 touchdowns over 83 games.
Spotrac projects the 31-year-old's free-agent deal to be worth $9.2 million for a one-year deal. NFL teams might not with to offer Thomas more than one season because of his recent injury history - playing in just 20 games over the last four years. ... and we're dubious about Dallas wanting to spend $9 million here.
But as a rejuvenation project on the cheap? His role with the Cowboys could likely be much different than it was in New Orleans. Thomas probably wouldn't see many double teams because of the presence of CeeDee Lamb. He was expected to carry the Saints' offense and that would not be the case in Dallas.
He'd also be playing with an elite quarterback in Dak Prescott. Thomas found his most success in New Orleans when Drew Bress was throwing to him.
If the Cowboys choose to go the Thomas way in free agency, it could be just what both the player and the team need to get over the hump.
