The sudden “illness” sidelining New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas ahead of the Week 8 game against the Colts has stirred the NFL trade rumor mill. While it’s entirely possible that Thomas is genuinely unwell, some are speculating about the prospect of a trade involving the star receiver.
The Dallas Cowboys, despite not viewing themselves as desperate for wide receiver help, have been at the center of trade discussions ahead of the October 31 NFL trade deadline. The most commonly mentioned trade targets include receivers from teams reportedly open to trading, such as the Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, and Tennessee Titans.
In Denver, the Broncos have Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton on the trading block. Last year, the Cowboys attempted to acquire Jeudy but fell short with a second-round pick. Sutton, at 6-4 and 216 pounds, could be an enticing option for Dallas.
In Tennessee, the Titans’ recent signing of DeAndre Hopkins has not paid dividends, and the possibility of a “fire sale” has emerged. However, the Titans deny planning such a sale, making a trade involving Hopkins uncertain.
.@keyshawn says the Cowboys should pursue a trade for Michael Thomas
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) October 24, 2023pic.twitter.com/XXDG2CMqJj
Now, former NFL and Cowboys star Keyshawn Johnson has suggested that the Cowboys could target Michael Thomas. Thomas, who happens to be Keyshawn’s nephew, boasts an impressive track record and shares the physicality of Courtland Sutton.
Thomas, 29, is currently on a one-year, $10 million deal, which would make him an affordable addition for 2023. While he has faced injury issues, he was the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2019 and is a two-time All-Pro.
The major hurdle for a potential Thomas trade is that the New Orleans Saints, despite a 3-4 record, are likely not considering themselves sellers. They remain in contention in a competitive NFC South. However, if Thomas’s “illness” proves to be a prolonged issue, it may spark further trade speculation.
As the situation unfolds, the NFL trade rumor mill will undoubtedly continue to buzz with intrigue.