After missing the entire 2021 season due to ankle surgery last year, star wide receiver Michael Thomas is back to 100 percent and back at practice for the New Orleans Saints. Yet he started camp still on the PUP list.

Munich/New Orleans – Almost exactly one year after his ankle surgery, wide receiver Michael Thomas is back in training with the New Orleans Saints.

Nothing should stand in the way of his playing in the season opener in six weeks.

The 29-year-old was previously placed on the PUP list at the start of training camp. PUP means “Physically Unable to Perform”, which means he was not allowed to train fully.

After a successful stress test on Tuesday, Thomas was taken off the list on Wednesday.

Thomas happy: “You have to stay positive “

However, he didn’t participate in all the drills. Primarily, the receiver ran routes without defensive coverage. He sat out the 7v7 drills.

After the drills, he was also available to answer questions from journalists. “You just have to stay positive,” Thomas said of his ordeal. “Even if you have to force yourself to do it sometimes. “

The Saints can only benefit from Thomas’ return. After Louisiana’s receiving corps disappointed for the majority of last season, fans have high hopes for next season’s offense with the return of Thomas, first-round pick Chris Olave and new signing Jarvis Landry.

Back @Cantguardmike Saints pic.twitter.com/XVEj15p7M7

– New Orleans Saints (@Saints) July 27, 2022

The Saints kick off the NFL season in week one with an away game at the Atlanta Falcons.