New Orleans Saints May Replace All-Pro Michael Thomas With This SEC Wideout In The NFL Draft

This SEC receiver is far from the next Michael Thomas, but would add some intriguing value if targeted by the Saints in the NFL Draft.

The New Orleans Saints and former All-Pro WR Michael Thomas had a disappointing split this offseason. New Orleans still has a talented threesome in Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and A.T. Perry. However, backups Lynn Bowden Jr. and Keith Kirkwood remain unsigned along with the department of Thomas.

New Orleans did sign former Cowboys and Dolphins wideout Cedrick Wilson in free agency. They also added Stanley Morgan Jr., who has been a special teams contributor most of his career. The Saints are expected to add another receiver, perhaps a couple, during this year's draft.

Most expect the team to add another physical pass catcher to replace what Thomas was able to do. However, another dependable intermediate route runner would also help free up Olave and Shaheed for big-play chances down the field.

Today's draft prospect profiles just such a player.

Ricky Pearsall, WR - Florida; 6'1" & 189-Lbs.

Florida Gators wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (1) makes a catch against the Florida State Seminoles

Credit:© Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK

Ricky Pearsall initially attended Arizona State out of Corona del Sol High School in Arizona. After seeing little time as a freshman (seven catches, 128 yards), he'd catch six balls for 86 yards during the Covid-shortened 2020 campaign. He'd follow that up with 48 receptions for 580 yards and four touchdowns for the Sun Devils in 2021 before transferring to Florida at the end of the season.

In his first year at Florida, Pearsall led the team in receiving yards (661) and touchdowns (5) while hauling in 33 passes. He had 65 receptions for 965 yards in 2023, leading the Gators in both categories while catching four touchdowns. Pearsall also rushed for 253 yards and five more scores over the last four years of his collegiate career.

A shifty slot specialist with reliable hands, Pearsall also brings outstanding route running skills. You could make a strong argument that he's one of the best all-around route runners in this year's draft class. He's a potential security blanket for quarterbacks on third downs or crucial situations.

Pearsall is able to gain consistent separation with a combination of fakes and jukes, disguising sharp route breaks, and underrated speed. His consistent play tempo makes it difficult for defenders to get a read on his assignments.

Pearsall works the middle of the field like an expert. He shows impressive coverage awareness, both by finding holes in zones quickly and setting up man coverage. After the catch, he's extremely elusive in the open field. He's shown himself to be a valuable weapon on jet sweeps and adds additional value as a punt returner.

Florida Gators wideout Ricky Pearsall (1) makes a leaping reception against the LSU Tigers

Credit:© Doug Engle / USA TODAY NETWORK

More quick than fast, there is some question whether Pearsall can be a consistent deep threat in the NFL. His lack of physicality could limit his effectiveness as an outside receiver, especially in base alignments or on early downs.

Pearsall has a slight frame and can be manhandled by a physical press. He also tends to struggle in contested ball situations, which could limit him in congested areas near the goal line or short yardage. He'll need to prove that he has the route precision and agility at the line to slip the press against physical man coverage.

Ricky Pearsall should add immediate value as a weapon out of the slot. He also brings the added versatility of a runner because of his open field ability. His frame and lack of explosiveness could push him down the board slightly. However, he's expected to be a late Day 2 or early Day 3 selection with the possibility of a second-round choice.

Pearsall may not be a physical replacement for Michael Thomas with the Saints. He would be a viable threat in the slot and a potential weapon in the intermediate zones to open up downfield opportunities for their other weapons.