Michael Thomas proves his commitment to recovery in 2022
By Kristen Wong
Arizona Cardinals’ Kyler Murray scrubbed his Instagram this offseason, and New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas recently followed suit. Fans have little to worry about, though.
Diva no more? Thomas seems intent on putting the drama of 2021 behind him and is ready to start a new chapter in his Saints career.
On Tuesday, Thomas reportedly deleted all of his Instagram posts before posting a video featuring basketball legend Kobe Bryant. He captioned it with “2022 demon mode,” which references one of Kobe’s quotes.
Kobe talks about how much he loves to work in the video. Seems to me Mike is saying he’s ready to get his return mission underway.
— Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) February 15, 2022
In the video, Kobe Bryant says, “I’m relentless. I want to win, and I want to win by any means necessary. That’s when that demon comes out.”
Sounds as good a mantra as any.
Whereas Kyler Murray unfollowed the Arizona Cardinals at the time of the scrubbing, Thomas’ loyalty to the Saints seems alive and well — both he and the New Orleans Saints continue to follow each other on social media.
New Orleans Saints’ Michael Thomas seems prepared for 2022 return
Of course, social media only tells you so much. Murray unfollowing his team on Instagram doesn’t necessarily mean he’s leaving the franchise, nor does Thomas’ post equate to his thriving relationship with the Saints.
Rumors of Thomas’ trade have largely died down after reports revealed the Saints had no interest in putting the star wideout on the market.
Thomas will be entering his seventh year in New Orleans after posting 1,000-yard-plus seasons in each of his first four years. However, Thomas has been plagued with lower leg issues in the last two years and underwent two surgeries in 2021.
While his road to recovery has been anything but easy, the 2019 Offensive Player of the Year will be looking to pick up where he left off three years ago when he recorded a ridiculous 107.8 yards per game.
A new era, a new Thomas?
Late to the party here but Michael Thomas' recent social media activity can't be dismissed. He seems to be on much better terms with the team, and he seems confident in his health. That is flat-out huge for the Saints.
— Chris Rosvoglou (@RosvoglouReport) February 15, 2022
With Dennis Allen taking over the reins of the organization, the Saints’ playoff hopes hinge on Thomas’ return, but Thomas’ efficiency will in turn depend on who plays under center.
Jameis Winston stands as the frontrunner for NOLA’s starting quarterback position as long as he and the Saints can come to a mutual agreement this offseason.
Next. 5 best remaining quarterback options for NOLA Saints in 2022 offseason. dark
If his Instagram is any indication, Thomas is ready and willing to put in the work this season. The Saints, on their end, need to meet him halfway and pair him up with a decent quarterback not named Hill, Book, or Siemian.