The Case For Michael Thomas Over Tyreek Hill
We can talk hypotheticals and potential outcomes until we’re blue in the face. When it comes to sheer, proven production, no wide receiver over the last two years has put more of a return on investment on the field. Much of what we discussed in Hill’s section could actually play to his favor.
There’s some reason to believe Thomas could see a target drop with Sanders and Trautman in tow. But, he’s proven he can succeed regardless. Last season, Ted Ginn Jr. ate up 56 targets, and Alvin Kamara took another 97. And Thomas still found a way to rack up the seventh-most yards in a single season in NFL history.
Because Thomas is so efficient with every target, even a slight droppage wouldn’t do much to majorly affect his raw totals. Contrary to popular belief, Thomas ranked No. 1 in yards per route run (2.88), and when you pair that with his (also) No. 1 ranked catch rate (82.8), you have the type of superstar capable of leading the NFL in yards, even if he has to sacrifice a few targets here or there.
John Hendrix of SI.com ran a sample of the NFL’s greatest receivers, and how they performed in Year 5. All signs appear to point towards Thomas having another remarkable campaign. As noted in that article, Thomas is said to have bulked up, a must-have for a receiver assuming his responsibility.
Similar to Thomas, Hill will have some targets to sacrifice too, with multifaceted stud Clyde Edwards-Helaire joining the team, and Mecole Hardman brimming with potential. Each of these players feel poised to have elite seasons, even if previous seasons tell us more statistically.
