Given the uncertainty surrounding Michael Gallup’s and other receivers’ futures, the Dallas Cowboys appear prepared to reload at wide receiver. Nobody else in the receiver group appears to be a lock to make the roster, except from CeeDee Lamb.
Because of his pay, Gallup actually seems to be one of the team’s top cut possibilities. According to SI.com’s Timm Hamm, Dallas should give free agency Michael Thomas of the New Orleans Saints some thought if they’re searching for a suitable replacement.
However, as an inexpensive revitalization project? On March 3, Hamm wrote, “[Michael Thomas’] role with the Cowboys could likely be much different than it was in New Orleans.” Thomas most likely wouldn’t witness many double teams due to CeeDee Lamb’s presence. He wasn’t going to be the offensive mainstay for the Saints in Dallas, as was anticipated. It might be just what the player and the organisation need to get over the hump if the Cowboys decide to go the Thomas route in free agency.
It’s tempting to think that he may end up with a two-time All-Pro when he’s struggling. Thomas was a standout receiver in the latter part of the 2010s. However, he is still seeking his comeback to the top, and Dallas may provide it for him.
It Looks Like Michael Thomas’s Time with the Saints Is Over
Thomas had a lot of hype after being selected in the second round in 2016 out of Ohio State. However, he adjusted to the NFL quite quickly, unlike some highly touted stars.
In his debut season with the Saints, Thomas amassed 1137 yards and nine touchdowns, according to Pro Football Reference. That would be the first of four seasons in a row with 1000 yards, though, as his 2018 and 2019 efforts were even more noteworthy.
Following a league-high 125 catches and 1405 yards for the Saints in 2018, Thomas set an NFL record with 149 receptions for 1725 yards and nine touchdowns in 2019 to win the AP’s Offensive Player of the Year award.
Nevertheless, his career has been hampered by injuries and other problems. Thomas did not play in any games in 2021. Moreover, since 2019, he has not participated in more than 10 games throughout a season. Keeping him on the pitch is the danger factor, even though he is still obviously viable at the highest level.
How Much the Release of Michael Gallup Will Save the Cowboys
The Gallup contract has aged the worst out of all the previous extensions that the Cowboys have given out. Following exceptional performances in 2019 and 2020, Dallas awarded the receiver a contract of $57.5 million.
Since then, the 27-year-old has not finished a season with more over 500 yards or five touchdowns. Even though his unlucky injuries have contributed to some of it, the Cowboys cannot continue to pay him star salary when he isn’t performing.
Gallup still has three years left on his contract, according to Spotrac, and his lowest annual cap hit will be $13.85 million in 2024. Eliminating him would release $11.5 million in 2025 and 2026 and save $9.5 million against the 2024 cap.
According to Spotrac, Gallup still has three years left on his deal, and in 2024, his lowest yearly cap hit will be $13.85 million. Removing him would save $9.5 million against the 2024 cap and free $11.5 million in 2025 and 2026.
