Saints' Payton: I'd want Michael Thomas in fantasy football

Sean Payton is anticipating an immediate impact from his rookie wide receiver.

The New Orleans Saints head coach may not play fantasy football, or at least claims as much, but he knows he'd want Michael Thomas on his squad this year.

"I've got high expectations from him," Payton said, according to Josh Katzenstein of The Times-Picayune. "Listen, I think he's going to contribute early. And I don't follow fantasy football, but, shoot, I'd try to have him. I think he's going to do well."

The second-round pick is jumping into what may be a more favorable situation than any other rookie at his position. With New Orleans having moved on from longtime wideout Marques Colston, the Ohio State product will be given every opportunity to emerge as a reliable target for star quarterback Drew Brees.

Payton's vote of confidence, combined with some early results in preseason action, suggest he's well on his way toward locking down such a role.

Thomas hauled in four receptions for a game-high 67 yards against the New England Patriots in the preseason opener. He'll look to bounce back from last week's one-catch performance when the Saints' starting offense sees its most extensive action yet against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Friday night.