Are The Stars Aligning For Saints RB Thomas?

Last year the Saints traded up to get Antonio Pittman in the fourth round. I remember watching last year’s preseason games, and saying to myself “That Thomas guy looks good, but he will probably not make the roster”, man was I wrong.

The Saints instead released Pittman, and kept the undrafted rookie from Illinois. The Saints back field was set with Deuce and Bush leading the way, and Thomas was limited to special team’s play, which he made the most of by scoring a TD off a blocked punt.

After Deuce went down suffering a season ending knee injury, Bush was promoted to full time starter. Bush was never able to establish himself and struggled as the starter. Bush also suffered a season ending injury, and Aaron Stecker was called up to action. That is when Thomas finally saw the light, and was given limited carries.

In the game against Arizona, Thomas suffered two fractured ribs, but Aaron Stecker was unable to go when the Saints met the Bears in the last game of the season due to a foot injury, and Coach Payton told the young RB, the Saints needed him to start against the Bears.

Most players would have not even dressed for a game with two broken ribs, but Thomas saw this as an opportunity, and seized it. In front of his hometown, Thomas had a record breaking game. He became only the second rookie in history to pile up 100 yards rushing (20 carries, 105 yards) and 100 yards receiving (12 catches, 121 yards) in the same game.

Now the NFL has seen its share of one hit wonders, but Thomas is not one of them. He has consistently proven himself as a legit player every time he has stepped onto the field.

So that brings me to my point. Have the stars aligned for Thomas?

Let’s look at the Saints current situation. Deuce has been looking great so far, but has still been limited. If he does play the Saints will want to limit him in fear of injury. Bush’s role in the Saints offense is still in question, and Stecker also has durability issues.

Coach Payton has made it known that they expect Thomas to see more carries this year. If he can duplicate last years breaking record performance or come close in a few games this year, Thomas will surely make his mark. We can only wait and see what the future has in store for the undrafted free agent from Illinois.