WATCH: NFL insider provides update on injured Saints WR Michael Thomas

After missing the 2021 season with an injury, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas is back with the team, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport. During an on-air appearance he discussed how things have changed and why the Saints will not trade their star this offseason.

“It seems the curiosity and saga surrounding Michael Thomas, the Saints standout receiver, is coming to a close in a positive way for all parties. Of course, Michael Thomas missed last season with a foot injury – and then had surgery delayed – and then a setback. He ended up having surgery again and it just never quite got right. I’m told two important factors in the Michael Thomas situation.

From Super Bowl Live: #Saints WR Michael Thomas is back in New Orleans and in a good place – finally – health-wise. A look at what he's been through and why the Saints won't deal him. pic.twitter.com/TtE9UyMyBv

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 12, 2022

“One, he has spent considerable time in New York after another setback with his foot getting weekly treatments. That’s where he’s been, really since the regular season ended after he announced and made it clear that he was not coming back. The other part of it is, he is back in New Orleans now. He has been communicating with the team. I’m told they are not expected to trade him and they want him back. So expect Michael Thomas back with the New Orleans Saints – of course new coach Dennis Allen – for the 2022 season.”

Among the biggest storylines of the Saints disappointing 2021 season, Michael Thomas and his injury easily became the most controversial. After disputes between the two parties throughout the offseason, he missed the entire season and remains out after delayed surgery.

In his career, Thomas has 510 receptions for 5,950 yards and 32 touchdowns in 70 games. He reportedly expressed interest in a trade last season, but it remains unclear how he views his future with a new quarterback room and new coaching staff arriving since his last game action.

Dennis Allen on Michael Thomas

The New Orleans Saints promoted defensive coordinator Dennis Allen to head coach following Sean Payton’s decision to step away, leaving the long-time assistant the keys to the franchise. While Allen looks out at plenty positives over the past several days, he must now focus on all the issues which need resolved before the 2022 season.

Dennis Allen addressed Michael Thomas on WWL Radio shortly after his hiring became official. According to The Athletic’s Katherine Terrell, the new head coach knows his star receiver is “working extremely hard” to return from injury quickly. He also remains “really committed to the season” although there is no timetable for his return.

Thomas is preparing for his seventh NFL season and first reporting directly to Dennis Allen, although he has only played in seven games over the past two years due to injuries. When healthy, he has proven to be one of the NFL’s top receivers, leading with league in receptions in two straight years in 2018 and 2019.