New Orleans considered putting Thomas, who's missed three straight games due to a foot injury, on injured reserve, but it opted not to in the event he was ahead of schedule, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Per Terrell, Thomas' initial prognosis suggested a four-week return timeline, but the Saints didn't want to put the star wideout on IR in case he was ready to return earlier than expected. The Saints are on a quick turnaround and play the Cardinals on Thursday, which would mark the fourth game since Thomas' initial injury, but it remains unclear when he'll suit up again.