First of all, let me make this clear. I want and hope the Buffalo Bills draft two young receivers, preferably within the first four rounds. However, if the contract is right, I would not be against bringing Michael Thomas on board for a season and seeing what he might have left in the tank. Worst case scenario, he helps mentor Justin Shorter and any rookie the Bills add this offseason.
The last full season Thomas played was 2019 when he set an NFL record with 149 receptions. Since then, it's been an ongoing battle with injuries, and now being released by the New Orleans Saints. Last season, Thomas played in 10 games and recorded 39 receptions, 448 yards, and a touchdown. Over the last three seasons, he's played only 20 games, totaled 95 receptions, and four touchdowns.
Thomas is 31 years old and maybe he isn't the same player he was four years ago but he's 6'3" and could be a huge asset in the red zone. The Bills don't have a lot of height in the receivers outside of Justin Shorter and Tyrell Shavers, both of whom are 6'4" but neither has played much other than some pre-season snaps. The only other two receivers over six feet are both pending free agents Gabe Davis and Trent Sherfield.
What is the downside if the Buffalo Bills were to sign Michael Thomas?
The downside of signing Thomas is he eats into playing time that players like Shorter need or a couple of rookies they might draft. It's also free agent money that could be spent elsewhere, like in the Bills secondary, that is getting an overhaul after Tre'Davious White, Jordan Poyer, and Siran Neal were released. Lastly, it takes up a roster spot at a position that's in pretty good shape, minus one solid addition. That's a roster spot that could be used to build some depth in the linebacking corps or perhaps along the offensive line, after the release of center Mitch Morse.
So, while I wouldn't mind the addition of Michael Thomas and would be intrigued to see what he might have left, I'd prefer that free agent money be spent elsewhere and for the team to place a focus on young wide receivers in this coming draft and Justin Shorter. It's still unknown if Gabe Davis will return, or Trent Sherfield but if one or both signs elsewhere, the Bills will be looking to add to their receiver room for the 2024 season. And I expect at least one via free agency. If Buffalo re-signs both, I don't think Buffalo will add another receiver through free agency but I do believe they will still draft at least one.