Thomas, who was rehabilitating his left ankle injury in New York for most of the 2021 season, has returned to New Orleans and is expected to play next year, Ian Rapoport of NFL.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

It seemed almost a foregone conclusion Thomas' tenure with the Saints would be coming to a close this offseason considering the organization's significant hierarchy upheaval, a looming cap-room crisis and what had been by all accounts a rather frigid relationship between the two-time All-Pro wide receiver and the franchise since the former underwent a second surgery on his ankle in July. While it's entirely possible the Saints could still look to deal Thomas given so much uncertainty regarding the direction of the franchise post Sean Payton, Rapoport's report seemed to indicate the team would prefer to keep the soon-to-be 29-year-old around. That's a significant statement given a breakup seemed inevitable six months ago, but it's also fair to point out that plans may change depending on how the Saints operate this offseason with negative $72 million in cap room.