Report: Saints 'close' to long-term deal with Michael Thomas

The New Orleans Saints and wide receiver Michael Thomas are "close" to hammering out a long-term extension, a source with knowledge of the situation told Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.

Thomas was a no-show Thursday as the Saints opened training camp. He's reportedly seeking a contract with an annual average salary of $20 million, which would make him the highest-paid receiver in the NFL.

Thomas has seen his production rise every year since joining the Saints as a second-round draft pick in 2016. He's become both a security blanket and a downfield threat for quarterback Drew Brees.

Michael Thomas stats

The 26-year-old Ohio State product is currently due to earn a shade over $1 million in the final year of his rookie pact.