Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is dealing with a new ankle malady, according to sources who spoke with NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport (Twitter link). That would help to explain why the Saints explored trades for wide receivers on Tuesday, including Browns star Odell Beckham Jr. 
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Thomas recently became eligible to return off of the PUP list, but it’s not clear when he’ll actually be able to suit up. Even with Tre’Quan Smith back in action, the Saints’ offense clearly misses Thomas. Marquez Callaway currently stands as the Saints’ top receiver with 284 yards, ahead of Smith, Deonte Harris, Ty Montgomery, Kenny Stills, and Lil’Jordan Humphrey (currently on the COVID list).
Thomas’ original ankle injury limited him to seven games last year, a disappointing follow-up to consecutive first-team All-Pro seasons, including 2019 when he set the all-time single-season reception record with 149 grabs.
Meanwhile, the Saints will also be without quarterback Jameis Winston for the rest of the season. That’ll leave either Trevor Siemian or Taysom Hill under center — not old foe Cam Newton or the retired Drew Brees.
Thomas is a flippin’ head case.