Saints' Thomas out for pivotal showdown vs. Bears

The New Orleans Saints ruled out wide receiver Michael Thomas for their Week 8 game against the Chicago Bears due to ankle and hamstring injuries.

Chicago downgraded wideout Allen Robinson to doubtful with a concussion Friday, but he cleared protocol Saturday and is on track to play.

Thomas hasn't played since his team's season opener, during which he suffered a high ankle sprain that sidelined him for multiple weeks. His return was postponed by a reported altercation with a teammate and the disciplinary measures that followed. He then suffered a hamstring injury ahead of last week's win against the Carolina Panthers.

The reigning Offensive Player of the Year has racked up just three catches for 17 yards this season.

Additionally, the Saints won't have wideouts Emmanuel Sanders, who's still on the reserve/COVID-19, and Marquez Callaway. Callaway led New Orleans with eight receptions for 85 yards against the Panthers last week, but he's now battling an ankle injury.

Robinson has played in all seven games this season. The Pro Bowler leads Chicago with 44 catches and 544 yards this season. He's also scored two touchdowns.

The Bears ruled out center Cody Whitehair for Week 8 due to a calf injury. Whitehair started all seven games for Chicago so far this season.