Report: Michael Thomas expected to miss several weeks with high ankle sprain

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is expected to miss several weeks with a high ankle sprain, NFL Network reports.

Thomas suffered the injury in Sunday’s win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and initially planned to play through it, according to reports. A re-evaluation of the injury on Tuesday apparently yielded a less optimistic prognosis.

The three-time Pro Bowler is coming off a season with 149 catches for 1,725 yards and nine touchdowns. His absence is a big blow to the Saints as they look to compete for the NFC South title.

The duration of Thomas’ absence isn’t clear. New Orleans has upcoming games against the Las Vegas Raiders, Green Bay Packers, Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Chargers.

Who’s up next after Thomas?

Emmanuel Sanders will presumably take over Thomas’ role as the primary receiving target for Drew Brees. Marquez Callaway and Tre’Quan Smith are next up on the Saints’ depth chart at wide receiver.

Jared Cook led the Saints in receiving on Sunday with five catches for 80 yards. Thomas struggled with the injury, tallying three catches for 17 yards in the 34-23 New Orleans win.

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