New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Two-time All-Pro WR Michael Thomas, Saints trying to patch things up?

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 8/12/21

It's been a drama-filled offseason for the New Orleans Saints regarding star wide receiver Michael Thomas. However, it looks like some broken fences may be on the mend.

Yahoo Sports reported Thursday that Thomas and Saints head coach Sean Payton "have had positive talks" and are trying to "clear the air" following rumors the 28-year-old vet could be headed for a trade, according to sources.

Tensions began to rise this summer after Payton made comments regarding the timing of Thomas' offseason ankle surgery and the likelihood he will miss the start of the 2021 season. A report by Nola.com later revealed Thomas didn't answer the team's phone calls regarding the status of his rehabilitation, furthering bad blood between the franchise and the wideout.

Then, there was Thomas' veiled social media post:

pic.twitter.com/frSOCaKHSs
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) August 9, 2021

As Yahoo points out, this recent effort to clear the air could strictly be out of necessity because Thomas' history of injuries and bad behavior have chipped away at his trade value.

"It would make more sense to just ride it out, at least until he’s back on the field,” one source told Yahoo. “If it’s not going to work after that, at least you know (as a potential trade suitor) what he can do on the field. It takes some of the risk out of an evaluation.”

Thomas, who has spent his entire professional career with the Saints, has recorded 510 receptions for 5,950 yards and 32 TDs over five NFL seasons.

More must-reads: