BALLER MOVE: Target ~135
CURRENT ADP: 148
ANALYSIS: Michael Thomas, a former Ohio State standout, was taken in the second round of this year's draft by the Saints. In 2015, he led the Buckeyes in receptions and racked up a team-high 781 receiving yards. At 6’3” and 212 lbs, Thomas has the perfect size for the position. He has a knack for making plays, and is able to grab jump balls in the red zone, something the Saints were lacking last year.
Marques Colston is no longer on the team, leaving a hole at the split end position. Additionally,Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead are both smaller receivers who will occupy the outside of the field. With a coach and a quarterback who love to spread the wealth on offense — seven different Saints had at least 30 receptions a year ago — Thomas is in one of the best possible situations for a rookie wideout. If he can develop some early chemistry with Brees, he could be able to put up some big numbers, both for the Saints and for his fantasy owners.
According to Fantasy Pros, Thomas is currently being taken at No. 52 among wide receivers and No. 140 overall. This puts him in the WR5 range, but he could certainly finish within the top 36.
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