Report: Saints' Michael Thomas Placed on PUP List After Surgery on Foot Injury

New Orleans Saints wideout Michael Thomas reportedly will be placed on the physically unable to perform list as he continues his recovery from foot surgery.

Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Thomas will miss at least the first five games of the season. 

Thomas, 28, has been beset by injuries in the past year. Injuries and disciplinary issues held him to seven games in 2020 and just 40 catches for 438 yards and no scores—a far cry from his epic 2019 season (149 receptions for 1,725 yards and nine touchdowns). 

The three-time Pro Bowler and two-time first-team All-Pro underwent surgery in June to repair ankle ligaments. It was a major blow for a Saints team trying to navigate a post-Drew Brees world. 

Thomas is in the conversation as the best receiver in football alongside Davante Adams and DeAndre Hopkins. Another period on the bench would be a devastating blow for the New Orleans offense and add pressure to superstar running back Alvin Kamara to carry the load.

Wideouts Tre'Quan Smith, Marquez Callaway and Deonte Harris will need to fill the void, but replacing a player of Thomas' ability is nearly impossible. The Saints will be treading water until he returns.