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Saints add Michael Thomas to receiving corps in 2nd round

Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Saints selected wide receiver Michael Thomas out of Ohio State at No. 47 overall in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft on Friday.

Many expected the Saints to select a defensive back, but they opted instead to add a big, sure-handed target to quarterback Drew Brees' arsenal.

Thomas is still a raw player in many ways, but he now has a chance to grow in one of the NFL's premier passing attacks.

Michael Thomas Bio

Position: WR
School: Ohio State
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-3
Weight: 212 lbs.

Strengths

  • Ideal size and strength. Has a large catch radius with 32 1/8 inch wingspan.
  • Sure-handed. Rarely drops passes and can win 50-50 balls.
  • Consistent. Had almost identical numbers in sophomore and junior seasons with alternating quarterbacks.
  • Ideal complement to a speedy No. 1 receiver.

Weaknesses

  • Doesn't have second gear necessary to create separation down the field.
  • Limited ability after the catch. Not very elusive in space.
  • Not a big-game player. Was held to two catches against each of three toughest opponents in junior season.
  • Below average route-runner. Ran a limited route tree in Ohio State's spread system and struggled with footwork at times.

Combine Results

Event Result
40-yd Dash 4.57 sec
Bench Press 18 reps
Vertical Jump 35.0 inches
Broad Jump 126.0 inches
3-Cone Drill 6.80 sec
20-yd Shuffle 4.13 sec

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