News:Pierre Thomas told the New Orleans Times-Picayune that head coach Sean Payton will make it a point to run the football more this season than in the past. "He said we definitely need to get back to that ground game," Thomas said. "There's going to be more focus this year on that ground game than any year. He said we've got to get back to running the ball, having 100-yard games non-stop. I can't wait. I'm excited and I know everybody else is excited."
Analysis: Thomas' outlook isn't too terrible given Chris Ivory's departure to New York during the draft. Now Thomas will split reps with Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram, something that Thomas believes will result in better defined roles for all three players. Thomas had one of his worst seasons in 2012, scoring twice and totaling under 850 yards for the first time since an injury-shortened 2010. Realistically Thomas provides good depth for Fantasy owners and isn't bad as a late-round pick though he'll need an injury to Mark Ingram or Darren Sproles for his playing time to really perk up (ProFootballFocus.com says Thomas played over 50 percent of the snaps just once last year).
News: New Orleans placed running back Pierre Thomas on injured reserve Saturday, reports the team's official site. The Saints signed cornerback A.J. Davis to the active roster. Thomas had already been ruled out for the season finale against Carolina with a knee injury.
Analysis: With the Saints out of playoff contention, the team had no reason to keep Thomas off IR at this point. Especially since New Orleans has several other options in the backfield, including Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles. Thomas finishes the season with just two total touchdowns, matching the lowest total of his career from his rookie campaign in 2007. Fantasy owners should look to healthier alternatives for Week 17 and consider Thomas a low-end option in keeper leagues heading into 2013.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas was ruled out for Week 17 against Carolina with a troublesome knee injury. Thomas missed all three days of practice over the past week and will be sidelined for his first game of the season Sunday. He has been bothered by the issue since last week, but was able to stay active for Week 16 against Dallas after being listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: With the Saints out of playoff contention, the team had no reason to keep Thomas active for Sunday's game and risk further injury. Especially since New Orleans has several other options in the backfield, including Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles. Thomas finishes the season with just two total touchdowns, matching the lowest total of his career from his rookie campaign in 2007. Fantasy owners should look to healthier alternatives for Week 17 and consider Thomas a low-end option in keeper leagues heading into 2013.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints running back Pierre Thomas missed practice again Thursday with a knee injury. He has now missed two practices heading into Week 17 against Carolina. Keep in mind that Thomas was on the injury report last week heading into the Week 16 game at Dallas and finished with 77 total yards and a touchdown in that game.
Analysis: If Thomas is able to play against the Panthers he would be considered a No. 3 Fantasy running back. He has a good history against Carolina with a touchdown or 100 total yards in three of his past five meetings, including Week 2 when he had nine carries for 110 yards and four catches for 33 yards. The problem for Thomas is the Saints continue to rely on Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles, which limits his touches, but he still has at least six Fantasy points in three of his past four games. Just keep an eye on his knee situation, and if he plays against the Panthers then use him as a flex option in deeper formats.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas appeared on the injury report Wednesday as he couldn't practice due to his lingering knee issue. That said, Thomas is expected to be fine to play Week 17 in the finale against Carolina. Thomas was on the injury report last week heading into the game at Dallas and finished with 77 yards and a touchdown in that game.
Analysis: Thomas rushed for 16 yards last week against the Cowboys but caught seven passes from Drew Brees, one of which going for a TD. Carolina is allowing the eighth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing RBs on the season, so Thomas could have another solid performance for the Saints. In fact, few teams have given up more receiving yardage to RBs than have the Panthers. Mark Ingram still figures to be the lead runner for the Saints with plenty of Darren Sproles mixed in, but Thomas can still be active as a flex option in some Fantasy formats, if healthy.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas finished with 77 total yards and a touchdown during New Orleans' 34-31 overtime victory over Dallas in Week 16. For the third straight week, Thomas generated most of his production in the passing game as he matched a season-high with seven catches for 61 yards. He reached the end zone on a 5-yard pass from Drew Brees in the third quarter, his first touchdown since Week 7 at Tampa Bay. Thomas collected a total of nine targets from Brees during the game for an average of 8.7 yards per catch.
Analysis: While he shined again on the receiving end, Thomas continued to take a backseat in the backfield as Mark Ingram dominated carries for the Saints (21). Thomas finished with just seven carries for 16 yards, the third consecutive outing he finished with fewer than 20 yards on the ground. He will likely continue to be active in the passing game over the team's running plans, and should be viewed as a viable option only in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 17 against Carolina, particularly PPR leagues.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas is active for Week 16 at Dallas after being hampered by a knee issue in practice last week. Thomas practiced on a limited basis for two days last week and landed as probable on the team's injury report. He will be seeking a rebound from his subpar performance from last Sunday when he gained just 13 yards on four carries -- his second-lowest total of the season. The Cowboys own the No. 15-ranked run defense in the NFL (115.2 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Thomas has struggled to find adequate running lanes recently while being held to fewer than 20 rushing yards in each of the past two weeks. But he has remained a solid contributor in the passing game, recording 10 catches for 83 yards over that two-game span. Thomas still must battle a host of other options in the backfield for the Saints, and Dallas has displayed signs of tightening up on defense. The Cowboys are permitting an average of 16.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs and no touchdowns through the air to the position. Consider Thomas a low-end option in most formats for Week 16.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 16 at Dallas due to a minor knee issue. Thomas practiced on a limited basis for the second day in a row Friday after appearing on the injury report for the first time this season Thursday. He will be seeking a rebound from his subpar performance from last Sunday when he gained just 13 yards on four carries -- his second-lowest total of the season. The Cowboys own the No. 15-ranked run defense in the NFL (115.2 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Thomas has struggled to find adequate running lanes recently while being held to fewer than 20 rushing yards in each of the past two weeks. But he has remained a solid contributor in the passing game, recording 10 catches for 83 yards over that two-game span. Thomas still must battle a host of other options in the backfield for the Saints and Dallas has displayed signs of tightening up on defense. The Cowboys are permitting an average of 16.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs and no touchdowns through the air to the position. Consider Thomas a low-end option in most formats for Week 16.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas appeared on the injury report for the first time this season as he was a limited participant during Thursday's practice session due to a knee issue. Thomas finished with four carries for 13 yards and three catches for 26 yards in Week 15 against the Buccaneers. The Saints will travel to Dallas in Week 16.
Analysis: Thomas has not had any injury issues and has played in every game this season, so barring a setback we expect him to play come Sunday. He has not been able to rack up a good chunk of yards this season and has been held out of the end zone since Week 7 against the Buccaneers. Thomas is not a recommended Fantasy start, even if healthy, heading into Week 16.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas couldn't keep his good fortunes against the Bucs going Week 15. Thomas came into Sunday with a rushing touchdown in two straight and three of four games against the Bucs. However, Mark Ingram scored the only rushing touchdown for New Orleans Sunday, while Thomas finished with four carries for 13 yards and three catches for 26 yards.
Analysis: You know the drill with Thomas. He is good enough to be an every-down back in the NFL, but he just isn't in a system where he can thrive on a weekly basis. The Saints are a pass-heavy offense and Thomas has to share backfield reps with Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles. Thomas is not a recommended Fantasy start heading into Week 16 at Dallas.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas has managed a rushing touchdown in two straight and three of four games against the Bucs. He will aim to make it three straight and four of five Week 15 when the two NFC South rivals meet in New Orleans. Thomas managed 13 carries for 32 yards and one touchdown Week 7 against the Bucs. Running backs average 67 rushing yards, 41.5 receiving yards and 14.6 Fantasy points per week against the Bucs, which is the ninth-lowest average in the league. Running backs have totaled 10 touchdowns (eight rushing) against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Thomas has managed more than 10 carries just twice and has managed more than 50 rushing yards just twice as well this season. Thomas is part of a crowded backfield situation that is part of a pass-heavy offense. Thomas probably has the talent to be an every-down back in the NFL, but he just isn't in the situation right now that warrants him a ton of touches every week. Thomas is merely a desperation Fantasy start in deeper formats Week 15.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas racked up 76 total yards from scrimmage but was held out of the end zone for the seventh consecutive game during the Saints' 52-27 loss at the Giants in Week 14. Thomas tallied seven catches for 57 yards as he was targeted eight times by quarterback Drew Brees. But he managed just 19 yards on five carries out of the backfield as Mark Ingram led the team's running attack with 68 yards on 13 attempts. It was the third time this season Thomas finished with more receiving yards than rushing.
Analysis: Thomas' impressive reception total represented a team high and matched his own personal total from the previous five games combined. But his scoring problems persisted as Darren Sproles was the only Saints offensive player to reach the end zone and he posted both a rushing score and receiving touchdown. Unfortunately, the Saints' constant shuffling in the backfield makes Thomas a risky Fantasy play in most formats heading into Week 15 against Tampa Bay.
News: After collecting only 11 carries in Weeks 10-12 combined, New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas surged for a season-high 14 attempts during a loss at Atlanta in Week 13. It was just the latest indication of the Saints' revolving door in the backfield, which has been a point of frustration throughout the season. Thomas finished with 84 yards -- his highest output since Week 2 -- last Thursday and will attempt to carry that production into Week 14 at the Giants, who ranks 21st against the run this season (121.8 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: When Thomas was being bottled up on the ground earlier this season, he was still contributing in the passing game for the Saints. But that role has seemed to diminish recently as he's been held to just four receptions over his past three games. Thomas hasn't reached the end zone in the past six games and still has just one touchdown this season. The Giants are yielding a meager average of 12.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs so consider Thomas as a low-end flex option in most formats for Week 14.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas turned in a decent performance during Thursday night's contest against the Falcons in Week 13. Thomas had one of his best games of the season as he rushed for a team-high 84 yards on 14 carries in a 23-13 defeat. He nearly scored a touchdown in the second quarter as he was inches short of breaking the plane. Mark Ingram punched it in from 1-yard out on the next play. Thomas was barely involved in the passing game and caught just one pass for a 5-yard gain in the third quarter.
Analysis: It has been tough for Thomas to get going this season as he has been sharing his snaps in a crowded backfield that includes both Ingram and Chris Ivory, so it was nice to see him somewhat productive on Thursday. Thomas has 425 yards and just one touchdown this season while splitting his carries. He'll try to keep his production at a solid rate heading into Week 14 on the road against the Giants. The Giants have allowed just four rushing touchdowns this season entering Week 13. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end option in deeper formats heading into Week 14.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas heads into Week 13 on Thursday night at Atlanta looking to get back on track. Thomas touched the ball just once last week with no positive yardage with Darren Sproles back in the fold in a crowded backfield. Thomas faced the Falcons Week 10 and rushed five times for 10 yards in a minimal effort. Thomas has rushed 48 times for 185 yards and two scores in his last five games against the Falcons.
Analysis: The Saints main issue for Fantasy owners is the fact they have four viable running backs fighting for carries and touches. Sproles is an all-purpose back used mostly to catch passes. Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram should see plenty of touches and Thomas also gets into the act. That limits each's maximum value but Thomas has clearly become the forgotten man for the Saints. The Falcons are allowing the 11th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season but we do not consider Thomas a viable option for Thursday's game.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas was a complete non-factor in Week 12 against the 49ers. Thomas hardly saw the field in the 31-21 defeat as he only had one carry and failed to gain a yard on his lone touch. Mark Ingram rushed for 27 yards on 10 carries while Chris Ivory rushed for 34 yards on eight carries.
Analysis: With Darren Sproles now back in the mix for the Saints, no one was really sure how the Saints would distribute carries against the 49ers. While Ivory was the odd man out the last time all four of New Orleans' RBs were healthy, it appears Thomas is the one who may end up seeing the least amount of work moving forward. Still, the Saints RB situation is a nightmare one for Fantasy owners as it appears all four backs will see touches over the final five games of the season, which is going to make it hard to trust any of them as reliable options. Thomas appears to be the furthest down on the depth chart at the moment and is not a recommended Fantasy start in most formats heading into Week 13 against the Falcons.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas looks to have a tough matchup on tap in Week 12 against the 49ers. San Francisco enters the contest ranked sixth in run defense, allowing an average of 94.3 yards per game. The 49ers have surrendered just three scores on the ground thus far and are yielding an average of 10.6 Fantasy points to opposing RBs on the year.
Analysis: Thomas has been the odd man out over the past few games as he has seen just 16 carries over his last three contests. He has only gained 84 yards over that stretch on the ground and has been held out of the end zone in each of his last four contests. The Saints running back situation is a mess right now as the club continues to rotate four backs out of the backfield and that number could increase this week as Darren Sproles is expected to return. Combine that with the fact that Thomas is facing a very stingy 49ers' run defense and Thomas does not appear to be a viable option this week. Consider him merely a low-end or flex option in deeper formats against San Francisco.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas had another mediocre performance in Week 11 against the Raiders. He gained 30 yards on five carries and also caught three passes for 28 yards in the 38-17 win. He had a long run of 14 and averaged 6 yards per rush. Thomas finished third on New Orleans in rushing behind Mark Ingram (67 yards) and Chris Ivory (37 yards).
Analysis: The Saints continue to split carries amongst their running backs and Thomas has been unable to separate himself from the rest of the pack. Aside from his 110-yard performance in Week 2, the 27-year-old has been disappointing in Fantasy and could see even fewer touches once Darren Sproles returns from his hand injury. With the 49ers and their tough run defense up next on the schedule, continue to view Thomas as more of a low-end Fantasy running back for Week 12.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas rushed for just 10 yards his last time out and will look to get back on track in Week 11 against the Raiders. Oakland ranks 21st in the league in run defense, giving up 119 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 21.1 Fantasy points to opposing running backs. Thomas finished third on New Orleans in rushing in Week 10 behind Chris Ivory (72 yards) and Mark Ingram (67 yards).
Analysis: Many thought Thomas would receive a boost with Darren Sproles sidelined but it has been Ivory that has seized the opportunity. The 27-year-old has eclipsed 100 yards rushing just once this season, which was also the only time he gained more than 44 yards on the ground. Still, the Raiders have surrendered 11 total touchdowns to running backs on the year so consider Thomas a viable flex option in most Fantasy formats for Week 11.
News: In what seemed like a golden opportunity with Darren Sproles sidelined by a broken hand and the league's 24th-ranked run defense in town, Saints running back Pierre Thomas was a massive disappointment Week 10 against the Falcons. He had five carries for 10 yards and one catch for 6. Chris Ivory and Mark Ingram did all the damage on the ground for the Saints. Ivory had seven carries for 72 yards and a touchdown, and Ingram had 16 carries for 67 yards.
Analysis: Thomas appeared to be the primary ball carrier before Sproles went down, so his move down the pecking order with Sproles sidelined is unexpected, to say the least. That said, you can't really argue with the results. Between Ivory and Ingram, Ivory was especially impressive, breaking off an explosive 56-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. With Sproles down, Thomas remains the best receiving back for the Saints, but clearly his role isn't trustworthy enough for you to use him as more than a flex option in Fantasy, even with a favorable matchup Week 11 at Oakland.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas, who had one of his better games with Darren Sproles sidelined by a broken hand in Week 9, picking up 70 combined yards on the ground and through the air, has a chance to better those numbers Week 10 against Atlanta. Granted, he has to fend off not only Mark Ingram, but Chris Ivory, who came out of hiding with Sproles down last week. But against a Falcons defense that ranks 24th against the run, allowing 127.5 yards per game, the Saints might have enough rushing yards to go around. In Thomas' last meeting with the Falcons in Week 16 last year, he ran nine times for 53 yards and a touchdown and caught two passes for 4 yards.
Analysis: Of the Saints' three running backs expected to contribute in this game, Thomas is the best receiver, so even if the divided workload limits him to no more than 10 carries, he still has a chance for a big day in terms of yardage. And, of course, a touchdown is always a possibility. It's not like Thomas' outlook for this week is so bright that he's a must-start option in Fantasy, but with the favorable matchup and Sproles' continued absence, Thomas might be the best you can do in that second running back or flex spot.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas was fairly productive in Week 9 against the Falcons. Thomas racked up 70 total yards from scrimmage in the 28-13 win but was unable to get into the end zone. He did most of his damage on the ground as he rushed for 44 yards on six carries and also caught a pair of passes for 26 yards. However, his six rushing attempts were third behind Chris Ivory's 10 and Mark Ingram's 7 attempts.
Analysis: With Darren Sproles sidelined with a hand injury, most were expecting Thomas to see an increased workload Monday night. However, it did not play out that way as Thomas' six rushing attempts were his second lowest number of attempts of the season. Instead of using the 27-year-old as the team's featured back, the Saints opted to get Ivory back in the mix and split carries among all three backs. This makes for a nightmare scenario moving forward as it will be tough to gauge Thomas' value heading into Week 10 against the Falcons. While he should see at least a handful of carries in that matchup, owners should consider him more of low-end option when facing Atlanta.
News: Saints running back Darren Sproles is reportedly out indefinitely with a broken hand according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, meaning that Pierre Thomas should serve as the Saints' primary running back for the foreseeable future beginning with their Week 9 game vs. Philadelphia. Thomas was previously the Saints' top rusher before they signed Sproles before the 2011 season; since Sproles' arrival Thomas has 10-plus carries in two of 25 games including the playoffs. But from Week 11 in 2008 through 2010 Thomas was the Saints' main back when healthy (29 games) and averaged 12.4 carries, 3.4 catches and 86 total yards per game with 22 touchdowns. Thomas leads the Saints in carries and rushing yards this year with 58 runs for 257 yards, a 4.4 average.
Analysis: Thomas will split some reps with the likes of Mark Ingram and Chris Ivory against the Eagles, who enter the contest ranked 17th in run defense allowing an average of 110.4 yards rushing per game. The Eagles have surrendered just two touchdowns on the ground while yielding an average of 10.6 Fantasy points on the ground, so they're pretty good. But Thomas has the potential to rack up a lot of yardage and potentially score as part of a Saints offense he knows well. With Sproles out we love the idea of Thomas fitting into lineups with the expectations of 80-plus total yards and a few catches, with hopefully a touchdown. That makes him a Top 25 running back worth a look as at least a flex in every format.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas will be looking to get himself back on track in Week 9 against the Eagles. Thomas has rushed for just 130 yards over his last five games and has only found the end zone once over that stretch. He is only averaging 26 yards per game on the ground over that stretch and continues to split carries with Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram. Philadelphia enters the contest ranked 17th in run defense, allowing an average of 110.4 yards rushing per game. The Eagles have surrendered just two touchdowns on the ground while yielding an average of 10.6 Fantasy points on the ground.
Analysis: While Thomas is considered the Saints' top option in the running game, he has been a huge disappointment thus far. He has only racked up more than 40 yards on the ground in two of his seven games and has only found the end zone once over that stretch. Now he looks to have somewhat of a tough matchup on tap as the Eagles have done well limiting the production of opposing RBs. Philadelphia has only allowed three total TDs to opposing tailbacks on the year and two of those came through the air. That doesn't bode well for Thomas, who has just one receiving score over his last three seasons. Fantasy owners should consider the 27-year-old more of a low-end or flex option in deeper formats this week.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas led the team in rushing but could not make much of an impact against the Broncos in Week 8. Thomas was held in check for just 43 yards rushing on eight carries in a 34-14 defeat. He ran for 29 yards on five carries in the first half -- including three plays of five yards or more -- but was held to just three rushing attempts in the second half. He was barely involved in the passing game as he caught two passes for six yards in a losing effort.
Analysis: Thomas is off to a disappointing start to the season, rushing for just 257 yards with one touchdown through his first seven games. Though he is viewed as the string running back, he has shared the load of the work in the backfield with Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram. Thomas will try to get back on track at home against the Eagles in Week 9. The Eagles allowed 146 yards rushing, but held their opposing running backs out of the end zone in Week 8. Fantasy owners should consider him as viable option in deeper formats heading into Week 9 against the Eagles.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas is looking to get back on track as he faces a tough task at Denver in Week 8. Thomas is off to a disappointing start to the season, rushing for just 214 yards with one touchdown through his first six games. He'll face a Denver defense that has allowed just 3.7 yards per game, which ranks sixth in the league. Thomas has failed to rush for more than 35 yards in five of his first six games.
Analysis: Outside of his 110-yard performance against the Panthers in Week 2, Thomas has been contained on the ground. Like his fellow running back, Darren Sproles, Thomas has been getting more involved in the passing game, hauling in 13 passes for 139 yards thus far. Fortunately for Fantasy owners, he is considered the starting running back for the Saints and should get more chances to produce. Opposing running backs have averaged 15.3 Fantasy points against the Broncos this season. He is coming off a season-high 13 rushing attempts and should be considered as viable option in deeper formats heading into Week 8.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas finished with only 32 yards despite collecting a season-high 13 carries during the Saints' 35-28 win over Tampa Bay in Week 7. Thomas did register his first touchdown of the season when he plunged into the end zone on a 5-yard run in the fourth quarter to cap New Orleans' scoring. He was also held without a reception after being targeted only once by quarterback Drew Brees -- the first time he failed to produce a catch since Dec. 27, 2009, also against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Thomas has been contained on the ground this season, but continued to gain some yards in the passing game. However, that trend was reversed Sunday as he could not duplicate on his 40-yard performance he had against San Diego in Week 5. Fortunately for Thomas, the Saints' other running backs remain limited and he will continue to serve as the starter. Fantasy owners should view Thomas as a viable starting option in deeper formats for Week 8 at Denver, and expect a rebound in the passing game.
News: On a team that contains several options in the backfield, New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas is still finding a way to make the most of his touches. Thomas has not exceeded 30 rushing yards since Week 2 at Carolina -- his only such performance of the season -- but remains an active member of the passing game. He has totaled 139 yards on 13 receptions for a decent average of 10.7 yards per catch entering Week 7 at Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers have allowed 312.2 passing yards per game to opponents this season.
Analysis: While Tampa Bay has struggled mightily defending the pass, the Bucs have held firm on the ground and rank third in the NFL at allowing just 75 rushing yards per game. But Thomas has had some success running the ball against Tampa Bay, at least near the end zone, and has tallied a rushing touchdown in two of his past three games against the division rival. The Bucs are giving up an average of 12.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this year, but Thomas could find some Fantasy value in deeper formats, especially PPR leagues.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas posted his second-most productive game of the season in Week 5 against the Chargers Sunday. Thomas led the team with just 30 rushing yards on nine carries. He supplied some fireworks in the passing game, however, posting a pair of catches for 40 yards. His longest catch went for 36 yards. The Saints would win the game, 31-24.
Analysis: Thomas is probably the top option for carries in New Orleans, however he has yet to receive more than nine in any one game. The Saints have pretty much abandoned the run for long stretches this season. He is a useful weapon in the passing game, with 13 catches for 139 yards through five games. The Saints have Week 6 off for their bye week, before facing the Buccaneers in Week 7. The Buccaneers have been vulnerable to the pass this season, so expect the Saints to go to that early and often in the game. Consider Thomas more of a low-end Fantasy option for the matchup.
News: With the exception of a single 100-yard performance in Week 2, this has been a surprisingly silent start to the season for Saints running back Pierre Thomas. Through three games, he has 152 yards rushing on 28 carries, with 110 of those yards coming in a single week against the hapless Panthers’ rush defense. Thomas is averaging 14 rushing yards per game in the other three contests he has played in, heading into Week 5 against the Chargers Sunday.
Analysis: The Chargers have surrendered the 14th-most Fantasy points to opposing running backs this year, but they have actually held their own against the running game overall. They have surrendered 74 yards per game on the ground to running backs, but have been gashed for 55 yards per game through the air. Thomas has some value in the passing game, however he finished last week’s game with -1 yards on two catches, so he can be unreliable. Fantasy owners should consider Thomas to be more of a bye-week replacement option as a flex player for Week 5.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas could not find much room to run in Week 4 against the Packers. He gained just 14 yards on nine carries and also caught two passes for minus-1 yard in the 28-27 loss. He had a long run of 6 and averaged 1.6 yards per carry. Thomas finished second on New Orleans in rushing behind Darren Sproles (20 yards).
Analysis: Thomas has rushed for under 20 yards in three out of the first four games this season and has yet to find the end zone. While he continues to see carries ahead of Sproles and Mark Ingram, the production simply has not been there and the Saints will likely rely on the pass going forward. Thomas should be able to gain some yards in Week 5 against the Chargers but owners would be wise to leave the 27-year-old for deeper Fantasy formats. San Diego allowed 119 yards rushing and a touchdown to Kansas City in Week 4.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas enters Week 4 against the Packers looking for his first touchdown of the season. Green Bay ranks 26th in the league against the run, giving up nearly 136 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 15 Fantasy points to opposing running back. When the two teams met a year ago, Thomas ran for 31 yards on five carries and also caught four passes for another 37 yards.
Analysis: The Packers have yet to let a running back into the end zone this season but have been gashed for many yards on the ground. Thomas leads the Saints in rushing through three games and is averaging an impressive 7.3 yards per carry. He usually does not see touches around the goalline but with the way Green Bay has played thus far, the 27-year-old should be in for a fairly productive Week 4. Consider Thomas as a viable flex option in most Fantasy formats on Sunday.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas ended up having a disappointing game Week 3 against the Chiefs after he had a 9-yard touchdown catch taken away from him. Thomas was initially credited with his first touchdown of the season with 1:15 left in the second quarter after making an acrobatic catch on a bad pass from quarterback Drew Brees. After a review, the refs ruled the ball hit the ground and no touchdown was awarded. Thomas ended up with four catches for 55 yards and six carries for 11 yards. He was targeted six times in the game.
Analysis: The Saints are starting to get Thomas more involved on offense after his breakout performance of the 2012 season in Week 2. However, he is still part of a crowded backfield situation with Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles, so Thomas' touches continue to be limited. He had 13 touches last week and 10 touches this week. It seems on average he might get 10-15 touches per week, but if he doesn't score or break off a big play, then he will have just modest numbers. Thomas remains at best a flex option heading into Week 4 at Green Bay.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas heads into Week 3 against the Chiefs coming off his first 100-yard rushing game since early in the 2009 season. Thomas needed just nine carries to rush for 110 yards in Week 2 against the Panthers. The Chiefs are allowing running backs to average 111 rushing yards and 20 Fantasy points per game. Running backs have also totaled two rushing touchdowns against Kansas City. In his only game against K.C. in 2008, Thomas totaled 88 rushing yards and one touchdown on 16 carries, while adding four catches for 56 yards.
Analysis: Thomas has the skills to be an every down back. Last season, he averaged 5.1 yards per carry, and in two playoff games he averaged 8.0 yards per carry. He also has a touchdown in six of his last 13 games (including playoffs) dating back to last season. Unfortunately, Thomas is part of a crowded backfield situation in New Orleans and his touches vary week-to-week. He heads into a favorable matchup Week 3, but he is merely a sleeper flex start for the deepest of Fantasy formats.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas broke through the 100-yard mark but failed to reach the end zone against the Panthers in Week 2. Thomas bounced back from a rough outing last week as he made some big plays in a 35-27 defeat. He led the team in rushing as he finished with 110 yards rushing on nine carries, averaging 12.2 yards per attempt. His biggest gain of the day came late in the third quarter as he broke for a 48 yard gain up the middle for the Saints. Thomas was also involved in the passing game as hauled in four of six passes thrown his way for 33 yards receiving.
Analysis: Thomas turned what would have been an average afternoon to a big day in Fantasy when he broke through for that 48-yard gain in the third quarter. it seems like the Saints have opted to use Darren Sproles in passing plays, which leaves Thomas and Mark Ingram to split carries throughout the season, if they continue this pattern. Thomas made the most out of his nine carries while Ingram had just 16 carries for 53 yards on the ground. Fantasy owners should continue to view Thomas as a viable flex option heading into Week 3 against the Chiefs. Kansas City allowed 201 yards on the ground against the Bills in Week 2.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas is looking to redeem himself heading into a Week 2 matchup against the Panthers on the road. Thomas could not get the Saints’ running game going in Week 1 as he rushed for 17 yards on four carries. He’ll face a Panthers defense that surrendered 130 yards rushing in their first game of the season against the Buccaneers. Thomas has been fairly productive against the Panthers in the past; posting 48 yards rushing and 60 yards receiving in his previous two games against Carolina last season.
Analysis: Thomas is primed for a bounce-back performance against a Panthers, who have not fared well against the run thus far. He’s not the ideal back to give you over 100 yards rushing week in and week out, but Drew Brees could target him a few times for some short passes out of the backfield, giving him some value in the ground game and the passing game. As of now, he is listed as the top running back on the depth chart, though Mark Ingram picked up more carries than him in the previous week. Fantasy owners should consider Thomas a flex option, at best, heading into Week 2.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas didn't do much in the way of production Week 1 at home against Washington. Thomas got the early carries in a game the Saints played mostly from behind. He finished leading the team in rushing with just 17 yards on four carries without a score. Thomas added one catch for 12 yards and was targeted by Drew Brees just the once. Mark Ingram rushed for 15 yards on six carries behind him. Darren Sproles scored on the receiving end.
Analysis: Thomas is not worth much in Fantasy if the Saints are playing from behind and the same goes for Ingram. Sproles was the guy Brees looked to through the air most often with eight targets. We definitely expect better from Thomas going forward, we're just not sure how much better entering Week 2 at Carolina. Fantasy owners should consider Thomas a flex option, at best, for the game against the Panthers.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas is looking to improve his rushing prowess after a rocky preseason heading into Week 1 Sunday against Washington. Thomas, who rushed for 562 yards with five touchdowns last season, carried the ball just five times in the preseason over four games for 40 yards. He caught more passes -- eight -- than he did take handoffs from the quarterback. With Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram around, Thomas may not get many touches Week 1 against the Redskins.
Analysis: Thomas should see some looks in the passing game because the Saints love to throw and he's shown an ability to catch the football with 50 receptions last year for 425 yards and a touchdown. That gives him some added value in PPR leagues, but we can't guarantee he gets many carries and that is a scary thought for Fantasy purposes. Plus the Redskins were tough against the run last year. Fantasy owners can give Thomas a whirl in a pinch, but we wouldn't use him as anything more than a low-end flex option Week 1 against Washington.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas failed to register a rushing attempt, but contributed 35 yards on four receptions during the Saints' 34-27 preseason victory over Houston on Saturday night. Thomas collected five targets as he averaged 8.8 yards per catch during his third exhibition outing. He has now amassed 75 yards on six receptions over his past two games, but has yet to reach the end zone.
Analysis: Thomas has received more touches in the Saints' passing game this postseason, totaling two more catches than carries as he's rolled up just 28 yards on the ground. That trend could continue in the regular season as New Orleans has several capable rushers and favors a passing attack to advance the ball. But Thomas will attempt to improve on his total of five touchdowns from 2011 despite the crowded backfield that includes Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram. He should be considered a quality option in the later rounds of Fantasy drafts, with a slight boost in PPR formats.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas had a quiet night on the ground but made his presence felt through the passing game in preseason action against the Jaguars Friday night. Thomas took part in four of the first five series during the first half and finished with five carries for 13 yards. Drew Brees found Thomas twice during the opening drive, which led to a field goal. He caught a 15-yard pass and then two plays later hauled in a 25-yard pass.
Analysis: Thomas split carries with Mark Ingram while working with the first-team offense, but did break out of a couple of screen passes, which proved to be effective for the Saints Friday night. For now, it seems as if Thomas should get the bulk of the carries in the middle of the field while Ingram will see the majority of goal-line situations during the season. We like how Thomas always comes back to play a role for Fantasy owners at some point during the season, but with the number of talented rushers in New Orleans he's more of a reserve Fantasy running back with the potential to be a starter. Owners might want to draft Thomas along with another Saints rusher (Sproles in Rounds 3-4 or Ingram in Rounds 8-10) on Draft Day.
News: New Orleans running back Pierre Thomas caught two passes for 21 yards and had one carry for 12 yards during Sunday's preseason game against the Cardinals. Thomas, who took part in the first four plays of the game during the opening series, caught a pass for 20 yards in a 17-10 victory.
Analysis: Thomas was effective early on for the Saints during the opening series before he was pulled for the remainder of the game. He will likely split carries with Mark Ingram, Darren Sproles and possibly even Chris Ivory during the season. Thomas will get the bulk of the carries in the middle of the field while Ingram should get the majority of the goal-line opportunities during the season. We like how Thomas always comes back to play a role for Fantasy owners at some point during the season, but with the number of talented rushers in New Orleans he's more of a reserve Fantasy running back with the potential to be a starter. Owners might want to draft Thomas along with another Saints rusher (Sproles in Rounds 3-4 or Ingram in Rounds 8-10) on Draft Day.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas told the official team website that this offseason is going better than last offseason, when he signed an extension and spent the spring rehabbing from an ankle injury during the lockout. With no such issues this spring and summer, Thomas says his focus remains on doing the best he can while splitting reps with the Saints' other running backs. "I have always had the same mentality," said Thomas. "I want to stay focused that way. My main goal is always to stay healthy and stay hungry. You can’t slip up in this field. I always have to remember that I have to work hard because there is always a guy trying to take my spot."
Analysis: In New Orleans, Darren Sproles, Mark Ingram and Chris Ivory are all there trying to take Thomas' spot. And while Thomas has had at least 900 total yards and at least six total touchdowns in his last three seasons with at least 14 games played, he didn't lead the team in carries or total touches last season. We like how Thomas always comes back to play a role for Fantasy owners at some point during the season, but with the number of talented rushers in New Orleans he's more of a reserve Fantasy running back with the potential to be a starter. If you're looking for running back depth in the mid-to-late rounds on Draft Day, Thomas is the perfect guy to pick. Here's an idea: If you like Thomas, make it a point to draft him along with one other Saints rusher (Sproles in Rounds 3-4 or Ingram in Rounds 8-10) on Draft Day.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas left in the first quarter after taking a hit to the head against San Francisco in their NFC divisional round playoff on Saturday and will not return. Thomas caught a pass from QB Drew Brees on the Saints’ opening drive and absorbed a vicious blow from DB Donte Whitner just short of the goal line. Whitner jarred the ball loose, and Patrick Willis recovered for the 49ers at their own 2-yard line.
Analysis: Thomas' reception was his first catch of the game and went for 5 yards. He also recorded one carry for six yards as New Orleans has struggled to move the ball against San Francisco's top-ranked run defense. Thomas nearly matched his rushing total (562) with his receiving output (425) as the Saints favored passing the ball during the regular season. Fantasy owners should monitor Thomas' status as he could some playing time if New Orleans advances. Consider him an option in the later rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas did a little bit of everything on Saturday night against Detroit. He paced the Saints with 66 yards on the ground, finding the end zone once. Thomas also caught all six passes thrown his way, totaling 55 yards in his team's 45-28 win.
Analysis: Thomas is one of three running backs that the Saints use regularly, so it's hard to say who will step up on game day. The Saints face the 49ers next weekend, a team that allowed less than 80 yards on the ground per contest during the regular season. San Francisco allowed just three rushing scores in 16 games. Fantasy owners should watch his postseason performances this year, as the Saints may dangle him as trade bait in the offseason. Consider Thomas a low-end starter in playoff Fantasy leagues.
News:Pierre Thomas had 30 yards on five carries and 36 yards on three catches vs. Carolina on Sunday, finishing as the worst performing Saints running back in the game. Chris Ivory topped over 100 total yards with a touchdown and Darren Sproles scored with 69 total yards.
Analysis: Many figured Thomas would have a chance to do more, but the Saints were rolling through the air and Chris Ivory did a nice job as the primary rusher. Thomas is averaging nice totals but his stock could slide in 2012. We see him as a low-end starter in playoff Fantasy leagues this winter and a possible bargain chip for the Saints to deal during the offseason. If that happens, the door re-opens for Thomas to be a valuable Fantasy asset.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas had another good ballgame for the Saints on Monday night Week 16. Thomas scored a 4-yard touchdown in the first quarter for the Saints' first score in the game. Thomas finished with nine carries for 53 yards and the TD. He also caught two passes for four yards.
Analysis: Thomas will be looking for his third-straight game with a rushing touchdown when he faces the Panthers Week 17 in the regular-season finale. In fact, Thomas has scored touchdowns in five of his last seven games for the Saints as the team looks to gain a first-round playoff bye with a win against Carolina. Thomas had a decent game against the Panthers Week 5. In fact, Thomas recorded his first touchdown of the season in that game as he caught a TD pass. Thomas should play well again Week 17 and is considered a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB. That said, if Mark Ingram returns from injury Week 17, it could lower Thomas' value slightly.
News: After scoring his first touchdown in three games his last time out, Saints RB Pierre Thomas will look to start a scoring streak in Week 16 against the Falcons. Atlanta ranks fourth in the league in run defense, giving up under 97 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 13 Fantasy points to opposing running backs. When he faced the division foe earlier in the year, Thomas gained 29 yards on six carries and also had four catches for 9 yards.
Analysis: Thomas has been seeing more carries with Mark Ingram (toe) dealing with an injury but the Saints have not been running the ball much the last few weeks. Their offense runs through QB Drew Brees and they pass the ball as much as possible. Thomas has proven to be a reliable receiver out of the backfield, though, and sees carries in the red zone so he should have a decent performance on Monday night. While he competes with Darren Sproles and Chris Ivory for touches, consider Thomas a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 16.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas racked up 85 total yards from scrimmage and a touchdown during the Saints' 42-20 victory over Minnesota in Week 15. Thomas turned in his finest rushing performance in the past three weeks (32 total yards) as he averaged 5.5 yards per carry. He plunged into the end zone on a 1-yard score in the fourth quarter to give him his fourth touchdown on the ground this season.
Analysis: Prior to Sunday's game, Thomas had been more productive in the passing game as he finished with more yards receiving than on the ground in the past two games. However, he was better carrying the ball out of the backfield against the Vikings as he netted two catches for 41 yards. He is still an inconsistent option as the Saints have several other weapons and should be viewed as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 16 against Atlanta.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas heads into Week 15 at Minnesota with the possibility of New Orleans once again being without RB Mark Ingram. That could bode well for Thomas, though he hasn't exactly been at his best with Ingram out. Ingram missed last Sunday's game and Thomas managed just six rushing attempts for 22 yards. The Vikings have been solid against opposing running backs on the year. That said, Willis McGahee of the Broncos rushed for 111 yards and a TD against the Vikings Week 13.
Analysis: Thomas has rushed just eight times for 32 yards in the last two games as the Saints appear to be going away from him, even with Ingram out. Darren Sproles has seen more action and the Saints are a passing team, anyway. That said, Thomas does have three touchdowns in his last two games against the Vikings, including in the playoffs. Still,. Thomas is no more than a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 15.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had a disappointing game Sunday at Tennessee in Week 14. Thomas was expected to see an increased role with Mark Ingram (toe) out, but instead he was limited to six carries for 22 yards. He did have six catches for 35 yards on seven targets, but he was basically outplayed by Chris Ivory, who had 13 carries for 53 yards.
Analysis: We'll find out if Ingram is out at Minnesota in Week 15, and if that happens then Thomas could be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB in the majority of leagues. If Ingram returns then Thomas would have minimal Fantasy value as a starter in most formats since he would take away significant touches from Thomas.
News: Saints RB Mark Ingram is out in Week 14 at Tennessee with turf toe, which should open the door for Pierre Thomas to get increased playing time. When Ingram was out in Week 8 and Week 9 with a heel injury, Thomas had 23 Fantasy points combined against St. Louis and Tampa Bay. Thomas has a favorable matchup this week against the Titans, who have allowed nine total touchdowns to opposing running backs and nine to reach double digits in Fantasy points. In the past three games, Michael Turner, LeGarrette Blount and C.J. Spiller have combined for 286 rushing yards and two touchdowns and seven catches for 84 yards against Tennessee with each reaching double digits in Fantasy points.
Analysis: We like Thomas this week with Ingram out, and he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB in all leagues. He has the chance to reach double digits in Fantasy points against the Titans, and he's a great replacement option if you lost Ingram.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had one of his slowest games of the season in Week 13 against the Lions. He posted season lows in both carries (two) and rushing yards (10) in the 31-17 win. He also gained 11 yards on two catches. Thomas finished third on New Orleans in rushing behind Mark Ingram (54 yards) and Darren Sproles (28 yards).
Analysis: Thomas has not been seeing as many carries in recent weeks as the Saints have been riding Ingram. While he has three touchdowns over his last five games, he has seen fewer than 10 carries in all of those contests. Keep an eye on the running back situation in New Orleans going forward to see who will be toting the rock. With the Titans up next on the schedule, consider Thomas as more of a low-end Fantasy RB.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas has scored a rushing touchdown in three of the last four games and will be looking for continued success in Week 13 against Detroit. The Lions rank 23rd in the league in run defense, giving up over 127 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 14 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Thomas has been surpassed as the leading rusher on New Orleans by rookie Mark Ingram and has seen fewer than 10 carries in each of the last four games. But he remains active in the passing game, and has caught 15 passes for 92 yards over that span. While his carries have not been as consistent as they have in seasons past, he usually sees touches early in the game before giving way to the likes of Ingram and Darren Sproles. But since he has not rushed for more than 66 yards in a game thus far, consider Thomas as more of a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB against the Lions.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was able to find the end zone for the fourth time this season in Week 12 against the Giants. He ran in a score from 12 yards out in the fourth quarter and finished with 63 yards on eight carries in the 49-24 win. He had a long run of 16 and averaged 7.9 yards per carry. Thomas, who also caught three passes for 47 yards, finished second on New Orleans in rushing behind Mark Ingram (80 yards).
Analysis: Thomas has three rushing touchdown over his last four games and continues to be active in the passing game for the Saints. He already has 35 catches on the year and is just four away from matching his career mark. While his carries have not been as consistent as they have in seasons past, he usually sees touches early in the game before giving way to the likes of Ingram and Darren Sproles. But since he has not rushed for more than 66 yards in a game thus far, consider Thomas as more of a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB for Week 13 against the Lions.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton said Tuesday that Week 12 against the Giants could be the first time this season that all four running backs -- Mark Ingram, Chris Ivory, Darren Sproles, Pierre Thomas -- will be healthy enough to play. This will make it a tough decision for Payton as far as who will see touches and whether all four running backs will be active on game day. New York enters Monday night ranked 21st in the league in run defense, giving up 123 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 17 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Thomas has received fewer than 10 carries in each of the last three games but does have one rushing touchdown over that span. The emergence of Ingram and Ivory in recent weeks have cut into his touches, and it could become even worse with everyone expected to be healthy on Monday. Keep an eye on how each are used as it will help owners determine their Fantasy value going forward. But given his inconsistent play of late, consider Thomas as more of a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 12.
News: Even with rookie Mark Ingram back from a two-game absence for a bruised heel, RB Pierre Thomas led the Saints in rushing Week 10 at Atlanta. Unfortunately, he had only 29 yards on six carries as the entire team ran for only 41 on 16. He also caught four passes for 9 yards.
Analysis: The good news is Thomas had the most touches of any Saints running back, including Darren Sproles. The bad news is the Saints clearly made a point to throw the ball against a Falcons defense that entered the game ranked seventh against the run. Sproles remains the Saints' preferred backfield option on passing downs, and Ingram remains the preferred option in short-yardage situations, which kind of puts Thomas in no-man's land. He'll still have his moments of Fantasy relevance, but they'll be awfully hard to predict. The Saints have a bye in Week 11. You wouldn't want to use Thomas as more than a No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 12 against the Giants.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who has scored a rushing touchdown in back-to-back games, will be facing stiffer competition Week 10 at Atlanta -- not only from the Falcons, who rank seventh against the run (and fourth since the beginning of October, allowing 87.2 yards per game during that stretch), but also from teammate Mark Ingram, who could potentially return after missing two games because of a heel injury. The good news is Thomas has a good history against the Falcons, picking up at least 90 yards of total offense in each of his last three meetings against them.
Analysis: Even if Ingram doesn't return, Thomas still figures to lose touches to Chris Ivory, who led the team in carries last week, and big-play threat Darren Sproles. But he clearly still has a big enough role on offense to make a relevant Fantasy contribution. If Ingram misses Week 10, treat Thomas as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB. If Ingram returns, Thomas is more of a No. 3 option.
News:Pierre Thomas rushed for 66 yards on eight carries with a touchdown, adding 25 yards on four catches against the Bucs in Week 9. Thomas' score was an impressive 9-yard rumble where he broke several tackles in tight space before hitting paydirt. Sharing with Chris Ivory (22 snaps) and Darren Sproles (26 snaps), Thomas had the least amount of playing time (17 snaps) but obviously touched the ball plenty when he was in the game (snap counts include plays resulting in penalties). Part of the reason for his limited work: He hurt his ankle late in the first half and was out when the Saints went into their two-minute offense (Sproles had 9 straight reps then). He obviously was not limited in the second half.
Analysis: Thomas continues to stay productive despite sharing reps, a problem that will only get worse when Mark Ingram comes back. In fact, the Saints' Week 10 matchup against a Falcons run defense that's been improving doesn't bode well for a guy splitting reps. Consider him no better than a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 10.
News: Last week we cited Pierre Thomas as a great Fantasy option against the Rams' lowly run defense. He underwhelmed a bit, getting only seven carries and four catches and totaling less than 40 yards, but he scored late. He should have another shot to do well in Week 9 against the Bucs, especially with teammate Mark Ingram still on the shelf. Thomas hasn't had a bulky workload against Tampa Bay in years, but the last two times he had at least 10 carries he was good for double-digit Fantasy points. The Bucs own one of the worst run defenses in the league, yielding 142.3 rush yards per game.
Analysis: Let's try this again with Thomas: He's a good player who should have a great opportunity to put up some numbers against a bad run defense. If he can give you what he did against the Rams last week you might be moderately satisfied, but the reality is that he should be able to do better than that in Week 9. We continue to like Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who was expected to play a big role with Mark Ingram sidelined by a bruised heel, did lead the way in carries Week 8 at St. Louis. Unfortunately, he had only seven. Meanwhile, Chris Ivory and Darren Sproles each had six on a day when the Saints unexpectedly found themselves playing from behind. Thomas had only 23 yards on his seven carries to go along with 11 on four catches. Fortunately, he was the one who got the call on 3-yard line late in the fourth quarter, rushing for the Saints' first of two offensive touchdowns.
Analysis: Thomas was pegged as a Fantasy sleeper against the defense that gave up 253 rushing yards to Cowboys rookie RB DeMarco Murray just last week, but the Rams stepped up in a big way. The early deficit didn't help Thomas' case. Neither did the unexpected workload for Ivory. Ingram doesn't expect to miss too much time with his injury, so you shouldn't necessarily plan to start Thomas against the Buccaneers in Week 9. He's still useful running back depth in most Fantasy league, but with the Saints backfield getting more and more crowded, he may have just missed his opportunity to shine.
News: With Mark Ingram ruled out by the Saints on Friday, RB Pierre Thomas is expected to see a bump in carries against a pathetic Rams run defense in Week 8. The Rams are dead-last against the run, allowing on average 183.8 yards per game. DeMarco Murray took them to the cleaners for over 250 rush yards and a touchdown by himself just last week.
Analysis: The belief here is that Thomas will get over 15 touches and have a shot to score on the Rams. He's a fantastic No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 8. If you own him and are loaded at running back, you should consider trading him in advance of this matchup while his value is high. If you need a RB for Week 8, Thomas is a great option and shouldn't take much in trade to get.
News: Even though Saints RB Pierre Thomas had a season-high 10 carries for a season-high 57 yards and a season-high five catches for a season-high 68 yards Week 7 against the Colts, he might actually have a chance to top that performance Week 8 at St. Louis. The Rams rank a distant 32nd against the run, allowing 183.8 yards per game, and, not surprisingly, have given up the most Fantasy points per game to running backs this season. Granted, Thomas is still probably the third backfield option in New Orleans, behind Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram, but if Ingram is limited by a bruised heel, Thomas could be the primary choice to help run out the clock in the second half.
Analysis: Thomas is a better pure runner than Sproles, so even though he seems like a distant third option in Fantasy, he could actually get more touches than Sproles in Week 8 if Ingram has trouble staying off the field. Sproles is still the better play, of course, but if you're hurting at running back with so many teams on bye still, Thomas could be a sneaky No. 2 Fantasy RB. Even if Ingram is healthy, Thomas is sure to get his share of touches if the Saints jump out to a big lead.
News: After totaling just 16 yards a week ago, Saints RB Pierre Thomas was more productive in Week 7 against the Colts. He gained 57 yards on 10 carries and also caught five passes for another 68 yards -- both season highs -- in the 62-7 win. His 57-yard reception in the first quarter was his longest gain from scrimmage in his career. Thomas finished second on New Orleans in receiving and third in rushing.
Analysis: Thomas nearly had as much production on Sunday as he had in his previous three games combined as he was able to carve up the Colts both on the ground and through the air. While rookie RB Mark Ingram has been stealing carries from the 26-year-old recently, he remains the starter in New Orleans and should continue to see his fair share of touches. He could be in line for another solid game next week against the Rams so consider Thomas as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 8.
News: After totaling just 16 yards a week ago, Saints RB Pierre Thomas will be looking for more production in Week 7 against the Colts. Indianapolis ranks 30th in the league against the run, giving up over 136 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.3 Fantasy points to opposing running backs.
Analysis: Thomas has fallen behind rookie Mark Ingram in recent weeks and has posted just one touchdown so far this season. But with the way the Colts have struggled against the run, he should see some extra work on Sunday. Keep an eye on his progress going forward to see if anything changes in New Orleans. But until he proves his worth on the field, consider Thomas as more of a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB for Week 7.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was unable to find much running room in Week 6 against the Buccaneers. Thomas was held to just 11 yards on seven carries in the 26-20 loss, averaging just 1.6 yards per carry. He also lost a fumble on his first carry of the game in the contest and had a long of 6 yards. Thomas also caught one pass for five yards and averaged 2 yards every time he touched the ball.
Analysis: Thomas was again not much of a factor on Sunday and was again watched Mark Ingram see the bulk of the carries. To be fair, the Saints gave up on the running game fairly early after falling behind in the contest, which also contributed to his limited touches. However, other than the lone receiving touchdown he caught last week, Thomas' production has been sporadic at best this season. He does look to a favorable matchup in Week 7 against the Colts, but owners should consider the 26-year-old merely a a low-end No. 3 RB option or possible flex candidate heading into that contest.
News: After being held to his lowest yardage total of the season last Sunday at Carolina, New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas is hoping to rebound during Week 6 against another division opponent in Tampa Bay. Thomas managed just 42 total yards, but he did record his first touchdown of the season when he hauled in a six-yard pass from Drew Brees. However, he had just 18 rushing yards as he limped to a lowly 2.6 yards per carry average.
Analysis: Thomas has certainly shined against foes from the NFC South as he's recorded nine touchdowns (five rushing and four receiving) in his past 10 division outings. The 26-year-old has yet to top double-digits in carries during a game this season while the Saints have leaned on rookie RB Mark Ingram. The Buccaneers have struggled against pass-catching running backs and are yielding an average of 17.4 Fantasy points to the position this year. Consider Thomas a low-end No. 3 RB option or possible flex candidate for Week 6.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas picked the perfect time to score his first touchdown of the 2011 season in Week 5 against the Panthers. Thomas scored on a 6-yard pass with less than a minute left in the fourth quarter to give the Saints the go-ahead score in a 30-27 win. Thomas finished with 18 yards on seven carries and 24 yards on three catches.
Analysis: Thomas has now scored in two straight games against the Panthers and has nine touchdowns in his last 10 games against divisional opponents. Basically, it seems Thomas should be considered a sleeper Fantasy start every time the Saints play an NFC South opponent. Lucky for him the Bucs are on the docket in Week 6. Thomas still isn't getting a ton of touches in the Saints offense, and if he doesn't score, then he has a bad Fantasy day. He remains nothing more than a low-end, bye-week Fantasy replacement in Week 6.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is happy to see the Panthers on the schedule for Week 5. Thomas scored in his last game against the Panthers in 2010 and has eight touchdowns (five rushing) in his last nine games against divisional opponents. The Panthers are also allowing RBs to average 22 Fantasy points per week, which is fifth highest in the NFL. They have yielded four rushing touchdowns to RBs in four games.
Analysis: Thomas is averaing 5.0 yards per carry and 9.9 yards per reception. The only problem is that he gets limited touches because the Saints have a lot of playmakers on offense. The team does have a favorable matchup in Week 5 and Thomas could be used as a low-end option in Fantasy with six teams on a bye. But definitely temper expectations because he might only touch the ball 5-10 times.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas did a lot with just 10 touches Week 4 against the Jaguars. Thomas rushed for 36 yards on six carries and added 43 yards on four receptions. However, he didn't find the end zone and still doesn't have a score through four games.
Analysis: Thomas' talents are really going to waste in New Orleans. He is averaging 5.1 yards per carry and a career-high 9.9 yards per reception, but he just can't get enough touches on a weekly basis to make a big difference. The Saints are using Mark Ingram as their lead back and Darren Sproles gets more touches as the hybird RB/WR. It's just tough to trust Thomas in Fantasy at this time. The Saints play the Panthers in Week 5.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is coming off his worst game of the season in Week 3 and will look to get back on track Week 4 against the Jaguars. However, that could be a difficult task seeing how RBs are averaging just 3.0 yards per carry and 11 Fantasy points per week against Jacksonville, which is tied for the third-lowest average in the NFL. RBs have just one touchdown against Jacksonville as well.
Analysis: Thomas is averaging 4.8 yards per carry and 9.4 yards per reception in 2011 and has looked strong every time he has touched the ball. Unfortunately, he hasn't gotten more than 11 touches in a game this season as he shares time in the backfield with Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles. We aren't looking for a breakout performance from Thomas in Week 4, so he remains a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas got his fewest touches of the season Week 3 against the Texans. He carried the ball seven times for 28 yards and caught one pass for 7. He technically got the start for the Saints, but he continues to split time in the backfield with Mark Ingram and Darren Sproles.
Analysis: Though the Saints have yet to phase out Thomas, Ingram is clearly the future, and Sproles is the best pass-catcher of the three. If any of the three is going to take on a reduced role, it's Thomas. The Saints have never shied away from mixing and matching on offense, though, so it's possible Thomas could get hot one game and put up useful Fantasy numbers. Because you can't trust him to do that on a week-to-week basis, though, he's not a player you'd want to start in Fantasy right now. The Saints visit the Jaguars in Week 4.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who has averaged an impressive 5.1 yards on 14 carries through two games (and also has six catches for 51 yards), will likely remain the secondary backfield option to rookie Mark Ingram against the Texans in Week 3. Still, coach Sean Payton is debating how to divide the workload between the two, which means Thomas could end up seeing a few more touches against a defense that allowed 107 rushing yards to Miami rookie Daniel Thomas in his NFL debut in Week 2. "I don't know if there's an exact science to it. ... It's an ongoing challenge," Payton said.
Analysis: Then again, the Saints could get into a shootout with the Texans, making the running game an afterthought and Thomas once again a limited factor in Fantasy. Thomas has been a reliable Fantasy option in the past, but after missing much of last season due to injury, he's working to win back the favor of the coaching staff, which might be hard to do after the Saints drafted Ingram in the first round of April's draft. Thomas is still worth owning in just about all Fantasy leagues in case his role increases in the weeks ahead, but you probably wouldn't want to start him in Week 3.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas rushed for 41 yards on nine carries in Week 2 against the Bears, with his longest rush going for 9 yards. Thomas also had 14 receiving yards on two catches. Although, he did not have a touchdown.
Analysis: Thomas has looked strong rushing the football in the Saints' first two games. Unfortunately, he hasn't gotten an abundance of carries because the Saints have a ton of weapons on offense and the touches are watered down. Thomas is a very low-end Fantasy start heading into Week 3 against the Texans.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas has a good history against the Bears heading into their Week 2 showdown. Thomas has rushed for 192 yards and one touchdown on 42 carries and totaled 180 yards and two touchdowns on 19 receptions in two career games against the Bears. Chicago didn't handle Falcons RBs all that well in Week 1, allowing them to rush for 110 yards on 14 carries and total 105 yards on 11 receptions. Although, Chicago held all Falcons RBs out of the end zone.
Analysis: With Thomas' strong history against Lovie Smith coached Bears teams you would think the Saints would lean on him in Week 2. But the fact of the matter is that they have a lot of weapons on offense, and Thomas will share backfield duty with Darren Sproles and Mark Ingram despite doing well with his nine touches in Week 1 against Green Bay. Consider Thomas more of a low-end Fantasy start in Week 2.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas had five carries for 31 yards during the Saints' 42-34 loss at Green Bay in Week 1 on Thursday night. Thomas, who also tallied four receptions for an additional 37 yards, did not record his first rush attempt until New Orleans' second drive of the first quarter. Rookie RB Mark Ingram handled the first two carries for the Saints. Thomas finished with five targets from QB Drew Brees in the game.
Analysis: It's only the first game, but it appears New Orleans is focused on providing Ingram numerous carries. The first-round draft pick finished with 13 carries, nearly double the total of Thomas and fellow RB Darren Sproles (seven). Thomas is certainly the better pass-catcher, which boosts his value, though Ingram is likely to handle goal-line carries as he did on the last play of the game Thursday. Consider Thomas a low-end flex option for the Saints' Week 2 matchup against Chicago.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas said he feels encouraged by the Saints' rushing attack this year heading into their Week 1 matchup against Green Bay on Thursday. Thomas, along with free agent addition Darren Sproles and first-round rookie Mark Ingram, helped New Orleans average 4.1 yards per carry during the preseason. Thomas is calling his partnership with Sproles and Ingram a "three-headed monster."
Analysis: With New Orleans recommitting to the running game, Thomas appears to be in line for a strong role this season. "There'll be plenty of touches not only for Pierre, but for Mark and Darren," Saints coach Sean Payton said. "And it's our job to mix those up and also to let the running back get comfortable." Fantasy owners should utilize Thomas as a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option in deeper formats against the Packers.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas' surgically-repaired ankle hasn't been a problem during the preseason. He has yet to miss a day of practice and is averaging 4.1 yards per carry through two games. The Times-Picayune reports Thomas said he is about 95 percent healthy. "I've still gotta work on a few more things, but I'll be 100 percent by the time the season comes," Thomas said.
Analysis: It's great that Thomas is getting back to 100 percent. The sad fact, however, is that the Saints are loaded at running back. Joining Thomas in the backfield is draftee Mark Ingram and free-agent signing Darren Sproles. And in case you forgot, Chris Ivory is in the mix for carries. It's great for the Saints, but it makes a mess for Fantasy owners. Thomas remains more of a mid- to late-round Fantasy RB in standard formats.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune examined the running backs for the Saints, and had glowing reviews for all three top backs in Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas and Darren Sproles. Of Ingram, the paper reports that the rookie "has flashed a combination of power, elusiveness and breakaway speed - and more than anything, a knack for making his way through traffic." The paper projects that "Ingram looks capable of 1,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns." As for Sproles, he replaces Reggie Bush as the "change of pace" back. The paper says "he has displayed terrific speed, racing past ends and linebackers around the corner on sweeps and swing passes." And Thomas, even though he has become the forgotten player, "he is also running with some authority again after having offseason ankle surgery. Thomas still is capable of being a go-to tailback when needed, with the ability to make big plays in the screen game as well. He'll continue to be heavily involved in this offense."
Analysis: Thomas will likely play a role for Fantasy owners this season, but he's not worth drafting with anything more than a mid-round pick. Ingram will be the best RB for the Saints, and Sproles will work on passing downs. Consider Thomas a No. 4 Fantasy RB on Draft Day.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas hasn't really missed a beat coming off a pesky ankle injury last season. He's practiced fully throughout the first week of training camp and appears to be the one-two punch with rookie RB Mark Ingram the Saints missed last season.
Analysis: Thomas has been a bit under the radar this offseason in the midst of the acquisition of Ingram and Darren Sproles, but he is still expected to take on a big portion of the running load. He missed 10 games last season, but the tea felt confident enough in his rehab that they signed him to a four-year deal before the lockout. Thomas seems healthy and good to go for now, though he should be monitored heading into the start of the season. We still like him as a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB, so select him as such on Draft Day.
News: Two New Orleans coaches this week insisted to The Sports Xchange that, despite the selection of RB Mark Ingram in the first round two months ago, the team is not shopping RB Pierre Thomas. "He's here," said one coach when asked about some reports that Thomas -- who missed 10 games in 2010 because of an ankle injury, but who was the Saints' leading rusher in 2008 and 2009 -- might now be expendable. "We've seen firsthand that you can't have enough (backs)." Thomas remains attractive to the Saints because, while not a great back, he is very good in the team's tailback-by-committee model, fits nicely into a scheme that is heavy in screen passes and he's relatively cheap. The four-year extension he signed back in March is worth a modest $2.7 million per year and didn't include a signing bonus. Of course, that could also make Thomas, who is due a $2.7 million roster bonus, attractive to other teams, if the Saints decided they wanted to deal him. But the club seems insistent that isn't the case.
Analysis: Thomas is expected to compete with Ingram for the starting job, but we expect Ingram to win the job. That said, Thomas is still going to see plenty of playing time, and he could replace Reggie Bush on passing downs if Bush doesn't return. We still consider Thomas a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy RB on Draft Day. He's worth taking with a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News:Pierre Thomas may have signed a contract extension to stay with the Saints this offseason, but it didn't keep the team from drafting Alabama RB Mark Ingram with a first-round pick in the 2011 draft. It is believed that Ingram will push Thomas for the starting job and ultimately split reps with him.
Analysis: Thomas once told CBSSports.com that he always expects competition for playing time in New Orleans, and now he's got it in the worst way with the most prolific runner from college football's last two seasons. We can't help but think that Thomas' Fantasy profile takes a major hit -- especially near the goal line. Thomas will slip to a middle-round pick in drafts as a quality reserve rusher. Frankly, we'd rather have Ingram.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints GM Mickey Loomis said Monday he was glad to come to a new four-year deal with RB Pierre Thomas after negotiations led to some adversity last year. Loomis said he expects Thomas to recover from his ankle surgery in time for training camp.
Analysis: Thomas had offseason surgery on his ankle, but he's expected to be fine for 2011. The news that he's coming back to New Orleans is great for his Fantasy value because he has posted solid stats when healthy. We consider Thomas a quality No. 2 Fantasy RB in all leagues, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4 now that he's back with the Saints.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas posted on Twitter that he's been cleared to walk on his surgically repaired ankle and will begin rehab "soon." Thomas underwent surgery on his left ankle this offseason after missing a slew of games with the injury. He also just signed a four-year extension to stay with the Saints.
Analysis: Thomas is expected to be fine for 2011. The news that he's coming back to New Orleans is great for his Fantasy value because he has posted solid stats when healthy and should have a fairly prominent role in the offense there. We consider Thomas a quality No. 2 Fantasy RB in all leagues worth drafting as early as Round 4 or 5 now that he's back with the Saints.
News: Saints GM Mickey Loomis announced Thursday that the club has agreed to terms on a four-year contract with RB Pierre Thomas. The deal is worth $12 million per numerous reports. Thomas joined the Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2007, signing with the team out of the University of Illinois and has led the club in rushing over that four-year period, gaining 1,939 yards with 18 rushing touchdowns in 47 regular season games, 15 of them starts. He has also caught 116 passes for 938 yards and six additional scores and averaged 24.4 yards on 75 kickoff returns. He scored his first career touchdown in 2007 by returning a fumble on special teams for a score. Thomas, 26, was limited to just six games in 2010 due to an ankle injury and ran for 269 yards with a pair of touchdowns. He featured prominently in the team’s postseason run following the 2009 season, playing in all three games and running for 143 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, he caught 12 passes for 111 yards and two touchdowns, including a 16-yard score on a screen pass in the third quarter of the Saints’ victory in Super Bowl XLIV.
Analysis: Thomas had offseason surgery on his ankle, but he's expected to be fine for 2011. The news that he's coming back to New Orleans is great for his Fantasy value because he has posted solid stats when healthy. We consider Thomas a quality No. 2 Fantasy RB in all leagues, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4 now that he's back with the Saints.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas said via Twitter that surgery on his ankle "went well and now I'm in recovery mode." Head coach Sean Payton noted that the procedure involved a three-step process and also said the rehab time for Thomas could be lengthy but didn't go into specifics about how long it would take to fully heal. Thomas finished 2010 with 83 carries for 269 yards and two touchdowns and 29 catches for 201 yards in just six games after originally hurting his ankle in Week 3.
Analysis: Thomas is a pending free agent, and while he says he'd be open to returning to the Saints, there's no guarantee he'll be there. Furthermore, there's no guarantee he'll have a lot of work in the backfield there depending on who else the Saints have on the roster. Thomas' value is expected to be low heading into 2011, making him a potential middle- to late-round pick in Fantasy drafts.
News: RB Pierre Thomas had left ankle surgery recently and has begun rehab, Saints head coach Sean Payton said on Monday. Payton noted that the procedure involved a three-step process and also said the rehab time could be lengthy but didn't go into specifics about how long it would take to fully heal. Thomas finished 2010 with 83 carries for 269 yards and two touchdowns and 29 catches for 201 yards in just six games after originally hurting his ankle in Week 3.
Analysis: Thomas is a pending free agent, and while he says he'd be open to returning to the Saints, there's no guarantee he'll be there. Furthermore, there's no guarantee he'll have a lot of work in the backfield there depending on who else the Saints have on the roster. Thomas' value is expected to be low heading into 2011, making him a potential middle- to late-round pick in Fantasy drafts.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who dealt with an ankle injury and reports of a conflict with coach Sean Payton, said he would return to New Orleans in 2011 if he and the Saints can work out a new deal that works for both sides. "I don't think that will be a factor at all," said Thomas. "Everybody comes to a disagreement at times, but you know, you get along after that. You don't have a problem. Everybody's not gonna agree with everybody, so you move on from that point. I moved on. I believe they moved on. And they told me, 'We love everything you've done for us. We want you back.' So I've heard good things from them. I've talked to them. And we left on good terms. So everything is good between me and the Saints, and hopefully everything works out." Thomas, who re-injured the ankle two weeks ago during practice, said he is planning to meet with renowned foot and ankle specialist Dr. Robert Anderson in North Carolina in the coming days. Thomas said he's been told that surgery is likely. But he's hoping that Dr. Anderson might just prescribe rest. Either way, Thomas said he's just eager to have a final verdict on what's wrong and how it can get better.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas this offseason with his ankle and his contract. He finished 2010 with 83 carries for 269 yards and two touchdowns and 29 catches for 201 yards in just six games after originally hurting his ankle in Week 3. He has the potential to remain a No. 2 Fantasy RB when healthy and in the right situation.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Monday that RB Pierre Thomas will have his ankle evaluated by Dr. Robert Anderson, a foot and ankle specialist, in Charlotte, N.C. to determine if surgery is needed. Thomas saw Dr. Anderson earlier in the year, said Payton, who added "we'll go from there." Thomas missed most of the regular season with what is believed to be a high-ankle sprain and then re-injured himself in practice before Week 17 and was placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Thomas is going to have a busy offseason. Not only might he need surgery and almost certainly need a lot of rehab, but he's scheduled to be a free agent. He finished 2010 with 83 carries for 269 yards and two touchdowns and 29 catches for 201 yards in just six games after originally hurting his ankle in Week 3. Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas this offseason and how significant his injury is, but he has the potential to remain a No. 2 Fantasy RB when healthy and in the right situation. But first, his 2011 team, and injury status, need to be determined. We'll keep you posted.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton announced Wednesday that RB Pierre Thomas was placed on injured reserve. Payton said Thomas had a substantial setback last week during practice when he hurt his ankle. "He came back and was very effective for a couple of games – particularly the Atlanta game – and yet the setback he had was substantial and we’re at that point in the season where you want to do what’s best and yet you want to be mindful of the injury the player has," Payton said Wednesday. "So I think on all fronts – doctors, trainers, the player and ourselves – we felt that this was the best move."
Analysis: Thomas appeared on track to finish the season strong after his performance in Week 16 at Atlanta, but the setback in practice has now ended his year. He finished 2010 with 83 carries for 269 yards and two touchdowns and 29 catches for 201 yards in just six games after originally hurting his ankle in Week 3. Thomas is now expected to become a free agent this offseason, and the Saints might decide to let him go or he could explore another team on his own accord. The Saints could go with Reggie Bush and Chris Ivory in 2011 or look in another direction altogether. Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas this offseason and how significant his injury is, but he has the potential to remain a No. 2 Fantasy RB when healthy and in the right situation. But first his 2011 team, and injury status, need to be determined.
News: The Saints ruled RB Pierre Thomas inactive for the Week 17 game against Tampa Bay after tweaking his left ankle during practice on Friday. He missed nine games earlier in the season with an ankle injury. The Saints just want to make sure he's healthy for the playoffs.
Analysis: The Saints still have Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush available and so they decided to rest Thomas in Week 17. Because the Saints are locked into a playoff berth and can only advance in the seeding with a win and a Falcons loss vs. the 2-13 Panthers, they opted to rest Thomas. Thomas should be healthy by the playoffs.
News:Pierre Thomas tweaked his left ankle during practice on Friday and has been added to the Saints' injury report. He is questionable for Week 17 vs. the Buccaneers. Thomas missed nine games with a serious ankle injury earlier in the year. Head coach Sean Payton did not sound happy about it. "We just listed him just as it is, just less reps because of the ankle, limited," he said, refusing to discuss the injury further. Saints running backs Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush are both probable.
Analysis: It wouldn't be a shock to see Thomas go from outstanding Week 17 Fantasy option to an inactive based on this news. Because the Saints are locked into a playoff berth and can only advance in the seeding with a win and a Falcons loss vs. the 2-13 Panthers, we could see them opt to rest Thomas. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Tuesday that he was happy with the play of RB Pierre Thomas in his team's Week 16 win at Atlanta. Thomas finished with 19 carries for 63 yards along with a short touchdown and also had seven catches for 39 yards, his best game of the season, though he missed much of the year with an ankle sprain. “I thought he was efficient," Payton said. "... You’re starting to see him get back into form. He and Reggie (Bush) both had some key receptions out of the backfield and on that last drive Pierre had the one where Drew scrambled. I thought he played well.”
Analysis: With Chris Ivory sidelined with a hamstring injury, Thomas was in the familiar position of taking on the bulk of the Saints' rushing workload. If he lands that same position again in Week 17, he might put up even better numbers against the Bucs' lowly run defense. Figure him to play like a No. 2 Fantasy RB assuming that Ivory remains inactive in the Saints' regular-season finale.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas did something in Week 16 against the Falcons that he hadn't done since Nov. 9 -- find the end zone. He scored on 2-yard touchdown run and finished with 19 carries for 63 yards in the 17-14 win. He also had seven catches for 39 yards. With Chris Ivory (hamstring) out, Thomas lead New Orleans in rushing and finished second in receptions. He has rushed for 122 yards since returning from injury three weeks ago.
Analysis: Thomas missed a large portion of the season due to injury and had his best performance since his return on Monday night. He grinded out some tough yards against the Falcons, including a crucial fourth-and-short late in the fourth quarter to ice the game. He now has two rushing touchdowns on he year and should be able to finish the regular season strong next Sunday against the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay, who will be playing for a playoff spot, entered Week 16 ranked 28th in the league against the run and Thomas did not play when the division foes met earlier in the year. Fantasy owners should check back to see if Ivory will be able to play but plan on using Thomas as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 17.
News: After missing nine games with an ankle injury, Saints RB Pierre Thomas has rushed for just 59 yards in his last two outings and could be in for another slow game in Week 16 against the Falcons. Atlanta ranks 12th in the NFL against the run, allowing 106.1 yards per contest, and have given up an average of just 13.4 Fantasy points to opposing running backs. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Thomas rushed for 30 yards on nine carries and also had six catches for 61 yards.
Analysis: Thomas split carries with Julius Jones and Reggie Bush last week and could see even more competition if Chris Ivory (hamstring) is able to play against Atlanta. Injuries have cost him most of the 2010 campaign but he has proven that he can be productive when given the opportunity. Thomas originally injured his ankle when the division foes met in Week 3. If Ivory is out then consider Thomas a No. 3 Fantasy RB against the Falcons. If Ivory returns then Thomas should not be considered in the majority of formats.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas started Sunday's game at Baltimore in Week 15 with Chris Ivory (hamstring) out, but he didn't do much against the Ravens. Thomas had six carries for 20 yards and one catch for no yards. He also was used on special teams with five kickoff returns for 111 yards.
Analysis: Thomas shared carries with Julius Jones (four carries for 11 yards) and Reggie Bush (four carries for minus-4 yards) against the Ravens, but Thomas will likely remain the starter as long as Ivory is out. Thomas and the Saints have a huge game at Atlanta in Week 16, and Thomas had nine carries for 30 yards and six catches for 61 yards against the Falcons in Week 3. Thomas originally injured his ankle in that game, which kept him out for 10 games before he returned in Week 14. If Ivory is out then consider Thomas a No. 3 Fantasy RB against the Falcons. If Ivory returns then Thomas should not be considered in the majority of formats.
News: Saints RB Chris Ivory (hamstring) was listed among the team's inactives for Week 15 at Baltimore. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report and was considered a game-time decision. Pierre Thomas is expected to see a majority of carries in his absence.
Analysis: Thomas appears in line to pick up a good amount of carries in Week 15, but there's some bad news: He'll do it against the Ravens' tough run defense. If Thomas had a favorable matchup here, we'd consider giving you the green light to start him. But since the matchup is tough and there's no guarantee just how much work he'll get, your best bet is to leave Thomas off standard active rosters for Week 15 (he's OK as a fourth running back or flex option in deeper leagues). In fact, he's got a tough matchup next week too (at Atlanta), so chances are Thomas might not be of use to you until Week 17 vs. the Buccaneers -- if the Saints need to win that game.
News:Pierre Thomas appears in line to pick up a good amount of carries in Week 15, but there's some bad news: He'll do it against the Ravens' tough run defense. Speculation is that Chris Ivory's hamstring will keep him sidelined, giving Thomas a bigger piece of the rushing workload. But additionally, Saints head coach Sean Payton said he's looking at giving Thomas some kickoff-return duties this week, typically a sign that a player will see limited offensive reps because he's participating on special teams. The Ravens are allowing RBs to average just 13.9 Fantasy points per week, which is sixth-lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: If Thomas had a favorable matchup here, we'd consider giving you the green light to start him. But since the matchup is tough and there's no guarantee just how much work he'll get, your best bet is to leave Thomas off standard active rosters for Week 15 (he's OK as a fourth running back or flex option in deeper leagues). In fact, he's got a tough matchup next week too (at Atlanta), so chances are Thomas might not be of use to you until Week 17 vs. the Buccaneers -- if the Saints need to win that game.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas managed 16 touches in his return to action in Week 14 and was surprised by his workload after missing the previous nine games with a sprained left ankle. “I was surprised to get as many touches as I did," Thomas said. "I felt ready. I’m just getting back into the groove and everything. I still have a lot of work ahead of me. I’m not there yet." Thomas needs to shake off the surprise and get ready for Week 15 against the Ravens, especially if Chris Ivory, who injured his hamstring in Week 14, is limited or unavailable. Thomas has never faced Baltimore, but he has 618 scrimmage yards and six touchdowns in his past six games against the AFC. However, the Ravens are allowing RBs to average just 13.9 Fantasy points per week, which is sixth-lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: While Thomas got 16 touches, mostly out of necessity with Ivory hobbled in Week 14, he averaged just 3.3 yards per carry. Clearly, he is correct, he still has some work to do. But if Ivory is still hobbled in Week 15, then the burden has to fall on Thomas. It's just that he doesn't have a very favorable matchup. Consider him more of a No. 4 Fantasy RB or flex option for Week 15.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was fairly productive in Week 14 against the Rams. Thomas, who missed was playing for the first time since Week 3, finished with 39 yards rushing on 12 carries in the 31-13 victory. He averaged 3.3 yards per carry and had a long of 14 yards. Thomas also got involved in the passing game as he had four receptions for 29 yards in the contest. He finished with a combined 17 total touches for 68 yards.
Analysis: Thomas ran hard on Sunday and didn't show any lingering effects from an ankle injury that forced him to miss nine games this season. He split carries with Reggie Bush and Chris Ivory but still wound up seeing 17 touches the contest. Ivory left the game early after his hamstring tightened up, so there is a chance he could miss some time. However, the Saints said after the game Ivory was removed mostly for precautionary purposes and should be ready to play in Week 15 against the Baltimore. It that is the case, Thomas will likely play a similar role to the one he played against the Rams. With the Saints using a three-back rotation and the Ravens stout run defense, Thomas should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best, heading into Week 15.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas has officially been ruled active for Week 14 at New Orleans. Thomas, who has been out since Week 3 with an ankle injury, will share carries with Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush, but it remains unknown exactly how many snaps he will play. The Rams enter Sunday's contest ranked 14th in run defense and are allowing an average of 15.5 Fantasy points to opposing RBs on the season.
Analysis: Even if Thomas starts against the Rams he is not expected to get the majority of carries with Chris Ivory playing at a high level the past three games. Thomas should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best, but we would advise sitting him for this game. Let him shake off the rust and see how he does before calling him a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas again practiced in full Friday and is listed as probable for Week 14 against St. Louis. Thomas has been out since Week 3 with an ankle injury, but he should return to face the Rams. He will share carries with Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush, but it's unknown if he will return as the starter.
Analysis: Even if Thomas starts against the Rams he is not expected to get the majority of carries with Ivory playing at a high level the past three games. Thomas should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best, but we would advise sitting him for this game. Let him shake off the rust and see how he does before calling him a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) practiced in full again Thursday as New Orleans continued preparations for its Week 14 game vs. St. Louis. Thomas should return from a long absence for the contest, but he is not guaranteed any amount of touches.
Analysis: Thomas has been stashed on Fantasy benches for much of the season, but even if he comes back in Week 14 owners shouldn't be in a hurry to start him. Fellow RB Chris Ivory has five touchdowns in his last three games (both from short and long distances) and 254 rush yards in his last four. The Saints likely won't be in a hurry to insert Thomas into the game more than just for a few plays at a time. If and when Thomas returns, he could settle in as a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. Chances are he'll struggle to make a big impact for the rest of this season.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) practiced in full Wednesday as New Orleans began preparations for its Week 14 game vs. St. Louis. Thomas said he's under the same impression coach Sean Payton gave the media and that the plan is for Thomas to be active on Sunday. “He (coach Sean Payton) gave me the OK," Thomas said. "He said he’s not going to ask me (how he’s feeling) this week. He said, ‘I expect you to go.’” Less certain is how often Thomas will get the ball when he joins a Saints backfield that is now starting to look a little crowded after being injury riddled for much of the season. "I don't know. That's up to the coaches," Thomas said. "I just know when my name is called, I'm going to take advantage of my opportunities. That's the only way I'm going to be able to prove myself to everybody that I'm back and I'm myself again and that this injury is not holding me back."
Analysis: Thomas has been stashed on Fantasy benches for much of the season, but even if he comes back in Week 14 owners shouldn't be in a hurry to start him. Fellow RB Chris Ivory has five touchdowns in his last three games (both from short and long distances) and 254 rush yards in his last four. The Saints likely won't be in a hurry to insert Thomas into the game more than just for a few plays at a time. If and when Thomas returns, he could settle in as a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. Chances are he'll struggle to make a big impact for the rest of this season.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (high-ankle sprain) said his chances of playing this Sunday against the Rams are better than they were Sunday in Cincinnati. Thomas worked out before the Bengals game and said he didn't feel any limitations, but he has to convince head coach Sean Payton that he's healthy enough to play. Thomas said when he comes back that he sees a similar rotation with Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush to the one he had last season with Bush and Mike Bell. "I know when I get back on the field, I know I have to do what I have to do to be on this team," Thomas said. "I'm going to be successful myself. I'm going to give 100 percent like I always do. I'm not going to be worried about my ankle or whatever." Payton, meanwhile, said Thomas' return won't affect Ivory's carries at all considering how effective Ivory has been this season.
Analysis: Thomas has been stashed on Fantasy benches for much of the season, but even if he comes back in Week 14 owners shouldn't be in a hurry to start him. Ivory has five touchdowns in his last three games (both from short and long distances) and 254 rush yards in his last four. The Saints likely won't be in a hurry to insert Thomas into the game more than just for a few plays at a time. If and when Thomas returns, he could settle in as a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. Chances are he'll struggle to make a big impact for the rest of this season.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who has been out since Week 3 with an ankle injury, said Monday that his chances of playing this Sunday against the Rams in Week 14 are better than they were Sunday in Cincinnati in Week 13. Thomas worked out before the game. When asked what are his limitations, he said, “No limitations.” Thomas said he feels good with his injured ankle but to play on game day that he has to prove to coach Sean Payton that he's ready to play. Obviously, that hasn't happened yet. "I know when I get back on the field, I know I have to do what I have to do to be on this team," Thomas said. "I'm going to be successful myself. I'm going to give 100 percent like I always do. I'm not going to be worried about my ankle or whatever." Thomas also said when he comes back that he sees a similar rotation with Chris Ivory and Reggie Bush to the one he had last season with Bush and Mike Bell. As for his future with the Saints, Thomas knows the end of this season could determine his fate in New Orleans since he's in the final year of his contract. "I see it here. I hope so," Thomas said of his future. "You never know. You'll know in the future. I don't know the future. So who knows."
Analysis: We'll find out if this is the week that Thomas can return against the Rams. It would be a favorable matchup for him, but with the way Ivory is playing now, you have to wonder how the Saints will use Thomas in his first game back. Continue to stash Thomas and hope he does play this week. When healthy, Thomas should be considered a potential starter in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: As expected, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was not listed as active for Week 13 at Cincinnati. Thomas has been out since Week 3 with an ankle injury. Reggie Bush and Chris Ivory will continue to split time with Thomas out. Thomas did, however, make the trip to Cincinnati, which bodes well for his return soon.
Analysis: Thomas could play in Week 14, so check back on his status before setting next week's lineups. For now, though, keep Thomas stashed in all Fantasy formats.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints RB Pierre Thomas will not be active for Week 13 at Cincinnati on Sunday. Thomas has been out since Week 3 with an ankle injury. Reggie Bush and Chris Ivory will continue to split time with Thomas out. Thomas did, however, make the trip to Cincinnati, which bodes well for his return soon.
Analysis: This news was somewhat expected since Thomas was ruled as a game-time decision, but he has yet to be a full participant in practice. There's a good chance that Thomas could return in Week 14 against St. Louis, and hopefully he will be 100 percent ready to play by then.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton says he'll decide on Sunday whether running back Pierre Thomas is ready to suit up at Cincinnati. Thomas, who has missed eight games with a sprained left ankle, has been limited in practice all week and jogging with a limp at times. But Payton says the running back has moved around well while working with the offense as well as with the scout team and on kick returns as he tries to improve his conditioning. Payton says he's "guarded" about Thomas' prospects for playing against the Bengals but still wants to see how last season's team-leading rusher is feeling on game day.
Analysis: We anticipate Thomas being a game-time decision in Week 13. If Thomas does return, he will face a defense that is allowing RBs to average 17.3 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th highest in the NFL. Although, with the emergence of Chris Ivory and the return of Reggie Bush, the Saints might not have to lean on Thomas, so he would be a low-end Fantasy start Week 13. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was limited in practice for a second straight day Thursday as the team prepares for Week 13 against the Bengals. "He’s a quarterback’s best friend when it comes to running the football, throwing it to him," QB Drew Bres said. "He’s great in protection, so when that time comes (that Thomas returns) it will be great.”
Analysis: We anticipate Thomas being a game-time decision in Week 13. If Thomas does return, he will face a defense that is allowing RBs to average 17.3 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th highest in the NFL. Although, with the emergence of Chris Ivory and the return of Reggie Bush, the Saints might not have to lean on Thomas, so he would be a low-end Fantasy start Week 13.
News: Contrary to earlier reports, Saints RB Pierre Thomas was on the practice field Wednesday for limited reps as the team prepares for Week 13 against the Bengals. He said he is at "90 percent" healthy and he is doing as much as he can to show the coaches he is ready to return after missing eight games with a severely sprained left ankle. "I want to get back out there, but I have to be smart, and we have to be smart about the decision that we're going to make close to the end of the week and when it comes to game time," Thomas said. "Either I'm gonna play or I might hold out. But strongly I think I'm going in the right direction and I might be suiting up. So I'm happy about that."
Analysis: Thomas even did some special teams drills on Wednesday to test out his ankle. He told the defense to really hit him to see if he is game ready. We anticipate Thomas being a game-time decision in Week 13. If Thomas does return, he will face a defense that is allowing RBs to average 17.3 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th highest in the NFL. Although, with the emergence of Chris Ivory and the return of Reggie Bush, the Saints might not have to lean on Thomas, so he would be a low-end Fantasy start Week 13.
News: The same day that Saints coach Sean Payton said that RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) could be a game-time decision for Week 13, Thomas missed practice Wednesday. "It’s not up to me," said Thomas about his chances of playing on Sunday. "I feel good but it’s not up to me to say that I’m playing or not. I’m going to have to show them, that’s all I can do."
Analysis: Fantasy owners have to be sick of Payton's antics with his injured running backs this season, and they would be crazy to put Thomas in their lineup before they've seen him carry the ball after the whole Reggie Bush mess a couple of weeks ago. If Thomas does play in Week 13, he would be a highly risky Fantasy play in even the deepest of formats.
News: NewOrleans.com reports Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who has missed the last eight games with an ankle injury, could return to the lineup Week 13 against the Bengals, coach Sean Payton said Tuesday. Payton said Thomas has "turned the corner" in his rehab from a severely sprained left ankle. “I’m optimistic that (Thomas) can get back on the field for this game,’’ Payton said. “We began to see some real progress last week, yet we knew he wouldn’t be ready to play in that short turnaround on Thanksgiving. But when he and I spoke leading up to the Thanksgiving game, our goal was to make the Cincinnati game at least something we could target.’’
Analysis: While Payton is optimistic Thomas might return in Week 13, he will still be monitored the rest of the practice week and will likely be a game-time decision Sunday. If Thomas does return, he will face a defense that is allowing RBs to average 17.3 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th highest in the NFL. Although, with the emergence of Chris Ivory and the return of Reggie Bush, the Saints might not have to lean on Thomas, so he would be a low-end Fantasy start Week 13.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was ruled out for Thursday's game at Dallas as expected. He has been out since Week 3.
Analysis: Continue to keep Thomas reserved in the majority of leagues and hope he can return soon. When healthy, Thomas is a quality starting Fantasy option in most formats. Reggie Bush was able to return in Week 12 against the Cowboys.
News: The Saints have ruled RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) out for Week 12 at Dallas. Thomas hasn't played since Week 3.
Analysis: It emerged last week that Thomas tore a tendon in his ankle in Week 3, and while he did some work in practice last week, no one really except Thomas and his doctors know when he might be back on the field. Continue to stash him away in most formats, as he can be a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) did not practice Tuesday after doing some limited basis on Monday. "We'll just continue to monitor where he's at," said coach Sean Payton. "But he didn't take any team reps."
Analysis: The Saints continue to be super-secretive regarding their RB injuries, and we likely won't find out exactly what Payton has planned with his backs until Thanksgiving afternoon. Even if Thomas is back for Week 12, the Saints might not give him a full workload immediately, so there would be some risk to starting Thomas in Fantasy.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was able to practice on a limited basis Monday as he prepares for Week 12 against the Cowboys. He tore a tendon in his ankle in Week 3 and has not played since.
Analysis: There is still no return date set for Thomas, but Fantasy owners should be encouraged that he was able to practice a little bit on Monday. Keep an eye on him to see if this will be the week in which he returns. Even if he is back for Week 12, the Saints might not give him a full workload immediately, so there would be some risk to starting Thomas in Fantasy.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas was not active for Week 11 against Seattle as expected. He tore a tendon in his ankle in Week 3 and has not played since.
Analysis: With Thomas and Reggie Bush both out for Week 11 the Saints running game won't get that boost they thought they might. As for Fantasy owners they are still without one of their top draft picks. Keep him reserved until he's 100 percent and ready to return. There is still no return date set for him, but owners should keep an eye on him this week. The Saints play the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, but on a short week, Thomas is unsure if he'll be ready.
News: ESPN reports that Saints RB Pierre Thomas tore a tendon in his ankle when he hurt himself in Week 3. Thomas is out for Week 11 against the Seahawks.
Analysis: Well, Fantasy owners will be cursing Sean Payton today, as if they'd have known Thomas had torn a tendon, they might not have wasted a roster spot on him for this long. Thomas should resume the starting role for the Saints once he's healthy. It is now just a matter of time before he takes the field for New Orleans. He hasn't played in weeks and will likely be rusty, even on the practice field. Until he is given the green light and 100 percent healthy, it would be too risky to start Thomas. Keep him stashed until more is known on date for his return, which could be sooner than later. The Saints face the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, but Thomas doesn't know if he'll be ready by then.
News: Coach Sean Payton on RB Pierre Thomas, who will miss another game in Week 11 vs. Seattle: “I think he’s making progress. If he was at 100 percent, then he’d be getting team reps. But he’s making progress and I think we’ve turned a corner a little bit in the last week-and-a-half I’d say."
Analysis: Thomas should resume the starting role for the Saints once he's healthy. It is now just a matter of time before he takes the field for New Orleans. He hasn't played in weeks and will likely be rusty, even on the practice field. Until he is given the green light and 100 percent healthy, it would be too risky to start Thomas. Keep him stashed until more is known on date for his return, which could be sooner than later. The Saints face the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, but Thomas doesn't know if he'll be ready by then.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) did not practice on Thursday as he continues to work his way back from an ankle injury. "I feel great. I feel better than I did a couple of weeks ago, I can tell you that," Thomas said Thursday. While Thomas is suiting up for practice and doing some individual work, he is not yet taking part in 11-on-11 drills. "Right now I'm going day-to-day, but I could probably give you a hint that I might be back sooner than people think," Thomas said. Thomas and the Saints play the Seahawks in Week 11, a team Thomas has faced once before. In that game in 2007, Thomas did not record a stat for New Orleans, as he was not the feature back that year. Seattle has a middle-of-the road rush defense that allows 104.7 yards on the ground per contest. Thomas, New Orleans leading rusher from last season, has not played since Week 3 against Atlanta. In his three games in 2010, Thomas has 227 yards on 58 carries and two rushing touchdowns. He also has 22 receptions for 183 yards. "He's doing a lot of agility work during the course of practice with the trainers and I think he's starting to get his strength back," coach Sean Payton said.
Analysis: Thomas should resume the starting role for the Saints once he's healthy. It is now just a matter of time before he takes the field for New Orleans. His status won't be known for another day or so, but not practicing again is not a good sign. He hasn't played in weeks and will likely be rusty, even on the practice field. Until he is given the green light and 100 percent healthy, it would be too risky to start Thomas. Keep him stashed until more is known on date for his return, which could be sooner than later. The Saints face the Cowboys on Thanksgiving, but Thomas didn't answer when asked if he'd be ready by then.
News: Saints running back Pierre Thomas was back in shoulder pads and helmet Wednesday, but has rested his left ankle during 11-on-11 drills. The Saints are preparing to face the Seahawks in Week 11. Still the fact that Thomas, the Saints' leading rusher last season, was not in a walking boot or crutches as he was two weeks ago was a sign of progress. "With him, I really just want to go day-to-day here this week and just see how he continues to move," coach Sean Payton said.
Analysis: Thomas has not played since suiting up in Week 3 against the Falcons. Once he is healthy, we anticipate him returning to his starting role in the Saints' backfield. Thomas' status for Week 11 likely won't be known until Friday. Even if he is back for Week 11, the Saints might not give him a full workload immediately, so there would be some risk to starting Thomas in Fantasy. But it's encouraging to see him on the road to recovery.
News: According to the New Orleans Times Picayune, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was dressed for practice Wednesday but did not take part in any team drills.
Analysis: Thomas' status for Week 11 won't likely be known until Thursday or Friday, but this certainly isn't a great start to the week for Thomas, who hasn't played since Week 3. Continue to stash him away in all formats until he's cleared to return to action.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Monday that he was "optimistic" that RB Pierre Thomas would be back at practice next week following the team's Week 10 bye. He might even be able to suit up and play vs. Seattle in Week 11. Thomas has been dealing with a mysterious ankle injury -- believed to be a high-ankle sprain -- that has caused a perceived rift between him and his head coach. He was in a walking boot as recently as last week.
Analysis: Continue to keep Thomas benched while the Saints are on bye, but be as optimistic as Payton that Thomas could be back on the field soon. If he were to play vs. Seattle he'd be expected to have a solid game given the Seahawks' poor run defense. We'll keep you posted.
News: As expected, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) was listed as inactive for Week 9 at Carolina. He had been ruled out already on the injury report.
Analysis: Thomas will remain in a walking boot next week while New Orleans is on a bye. If he's healthy enough to return in Week 11, Thomas will likely be a must-start Fantasy option immediately off the bat, so continue to stash him away in all formats for now and monitor his status over the next couple of weeks.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 9 at Carolina. Thomas will remain in a walking boot next week while New Orleans is on a bye.
Analysis: With the Saints off in Week 10, Thomas is likely to be held until after that bye. If he's healthy enough to return in Week 11, Thomas will likely be a must-start Fantasy option immediately off the bat, so continue to stash him away in all formats for now.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) said the doctors still want him in a walking boot and on crutches this week. He said he can ditch the crutches next week, but he’ll remain in the boot next week. He did not practice on Thursday for the second straight day. Thomas refuses to consider surgery for the ankle. “I don’t even want to think about that," he said. "I don’t want to have surgery. Because if I know if I have surgery, I’m done this season. I’m not thinking that. I don’t want that." Thomas was also almost traded to the Patriots close to the Oct. 19 deadline, NewOrleans.com reports. The Saints and Patriots apparently discussed trading Thomas for CB. Talks ended when the Patriots wanted the Saints to throw in a draft pick, the report said.
Analysis: With the Saints off in Week 10, Thomas is likely to be held until after that bye, so don't plan on having him in your lineup for this Week 9 matchup with the horrible Panthers. If he's healthy enough to return in Week 11, Thomas will likely be a must-start Fantasy option immediately off the bat, so continue to stash him away in all formats.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) remained out of commission Wednesday as New Orleans began preparations for its Week 9 game at Carolina.
Analysis: With the Saints off in Week 10, Thomas is likely to be held until after that bye, so don't plan on having him in your lineup for this Week 9 matchup with the horrible Panthers. If he's healthy enough to return in Week 11, Thomas will likely be a must-start Fantasy option immediately off the bat, so continue to stash him away in all formats.
News: The Saints officially ruled out RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) earlier in the week, and he is officially inactive for the Week 8 game against the Steelers.
Analysis: It's entirely possible that Thomas is held out until after the Saints' Week 10 bye. If you've been benching Thomas this long, you might as well keep him benched or trade him for someone who can help you now (the Chris Ivory owner in your league might be interested). We'll keep you posted on Thomas over the next couple of weeks.
News: The Saints officially ruled out RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) for Week 8 on Friday. New Orleans hosts Pittsburgh. Thomas is back in a boot and has been told to take it easy.
Analysis: It's entirely possible that Thomas is held out until after the Saints' Week 10 bye. If you've been benching Thomas this long, you might as well keep him benched or trade him for someone who can help you now (the Chris Ivory owner in your league might be interested). We'll keep you posted on Thomas over the next couple of weeks.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton said Thursday that RB Pierre Thomas saw a third foot and ankle specialist this week, who told him to reduce the workload during his rehab. "I really don't know what's the whole problem," Thomas said Thursday. "Everybody keeps saying it's a sprain or maybe a little tear there, I don't know for sure if that's true. I'm hearing so many different stories. I don't know what to believe."He is using crutches after practice to keep pressure off his sprained left ankle and says he's frustrated by the length of his recovery. Thomas says his ankle is not getting worse and he can jog without much pain, but that trainers have advised him to keep weight off of it when possible. He has missed practice Wednesday and Thursday and has been out for five weeks now with the injury.
Analysis: It's now entirely possible that Thomas is held out until after the Saints' Week 10 bye. If you've been benching Thomas this long, you might as well keep him benched or trade him for someone who can help you now (the Chris Ivory owner in your league might be interested). We'll keep you posted on Thomas. If he can play, he goes up against the top rushing defense in the NFL in the Week 8 matchup with Pittsburgh.
News:Pierre Thomas did light field work but ultimately did not practice Wednesday, something we've seen for five straight weeks now, and there's no telling when Thomas will be ready to play again. Last week there were reports that Thomas was behind schedule and in the dog house of head coach Sean Payton, something the coach dismissed. This week, Thomas' agent told WIST-AM that his client indeed has suffered a high-ankle sprain and is rehabbing according to what the Saints training staff and an independent doctor suggests. Payton has previously denied that Thomas has a high-ankle sprain.
Analysis: There is definitely some off-field conflict going on between the Saints and their running back, who they failed to give a contract extension to last offseason. Regardless of the red tape and politics, now isn't the week for the Saints to bring back Thomas as the gritty Steelers and their top-ranked run defense are coming to the Superdome. It's entirely possible that Thomas is held out until after the Saints' Week 10 bye. If you've been benching Thomas this long, you might as well keep him benched or trade him for someone who can help you now (the Chris Ivory owner in your league might be interested). We'll keep you posted on Thomas.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas has missed four games with what is believed to be a high-ankle sprain, but a report from Fox Sports suggests that Thomas is in the proverbial doghouse for not getting back on the field to play. Coach Sean Payton said he and Thomas are on the same page as far as the frustration with the injury goes. Thomas said after Sunday's game vs. the Browns that he didn't know what to say about the report that he was in the doghouse and that he thought everything was fine between him and the coach. "Listen, you're asking me the question and I'm giving you the answer. We're all frustrated with the injury," Payton said Monday. "We're disappointed it's taking this long."
Analysis: Thomas has been after a contract extension for a while, so perhaps he's milking the injury to keep from getting hurt further. Or perhaps Payton thinks Thomas is able to play now but Thomas isn't feeling the same way. Regardless, it's probably not a good idea to bring back a rusher with a bum wheel against the Steelers, which is who the Saints host in Week 8. Expect to keep Thomas stashed on your bench this week. We'll continue to keep you posted on Thomas' status.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is officially listed inactive for the Week 7 game against Cleveland. Thomas has now missed four straight games with this injury, and coach Sean Payton said Friday that Thomas is behind schedule in his recovery, meaning Week 8 could be in jeopardy as well.
Analysis: Thomas now has two weeks to get healthy before New Orleans' bye in Week 10, and Fantasy owners would surely love to see him back in one of those two contests, even if the first one is against the Steelers. Continue to stash Thomas away in all Fantasy formats, as he's a must-start option when healthy.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 7 against the Browns. He has now missed four straight games with this injury, and coach Sean Payton said Friday that Thomas is behind schedule.
Analysis: Thomas now has two weeks to get healthy before New Orleans' bye in Week 10, and Fantasy owners would surely love to see him back in one of those two contests, even if the first one is against the Steelers. Continue to stash Thomas away in all Fantasy formats, as he's a must-start option when healthy.
News: The Saints continue to be guarded about the ankle injury to RB Pierre Thomas. He hasn't played since Week 3, and there's never been a timetable given as to when he could return. Thomas missed practice again Thursday.
Analysis: Thomas now looks unlikely to return in Week 7, so continue to make alternative plans at your running back spot for the time being. When healthy, Thomas is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: For the fourth week in a row, Saints RB Pierre Thomas did not practice Wednesday as he continues to rehab what is believed to be a high-ankle sprain. He had said previously that he hoped to make progress this week but so far he's been unable to test the ankle. Chris Ivory is expected to start against the Browns in Week 7 so long as Thomas doesn't get back to practicing.
Analysis: Thomas owners know the drill by now: Keep the stud running back benched and go with another option for Week 7, with Ivory a very safe alternative. We'll keep you posted on Thomas' status all week long, but if he doesn't work by Friday you should expect to be without him come Sunday.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) is officially inactive for Week 6 at Tampa Bay. Thomas had been ruled out earlier in the week with his ankle injury.
Analysis: Thomas has now missed three straight games for New Orleans as he continues to deal with this ankle injury. Management clearly doesn't want to rush him back to action, even though the team is struggling offensively in his absence. Hopefully Thomas can get back in Week 7 against the Browns, as that would be a great matchup. When healthy, Thomas is a must-start Fantasy option. Ignore him Week 6.
News: The Saints officially ruled out RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) for Week 6 on Friday. Thomas told the New Orleans Times-Picayune that the original prognosis on his injury was an absence of 4-6 weeks. "I'm a little frustrated, but hey, it's coming along," said Thomas.
Analysis: Thomas has now missed three straight games for New Orleans as he continues to deal with this ankle injury. Management clearly doesn't want to rush him back to action, even though the team is struggling offensively in his absence. Hopefully Thomas can get back in Week 7 against the Browns, as that would be a great matchup. When healthy, Thomas is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) continued to be absent from practice Thursday as New Orleans continued preparations for its Week 6 game at Tampa Bay. The chances of Thomas playing on Sunday appear to be slim at this point. "He is progressing each day," coach Sean Payton said. "We are monitoring it, and we will see where he is (Friday)."
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to continue to monitor this situation leading up to Sunday. Thomas has carried the ball 46 times this season for 147 yards with one touchdown and has caught 17 passes for another 133 yards. Although only getting 17 carries, Thomas rushed for 152 yards and a touchdown in two games against the Bucs last season. Tampa Bay has given up 143 yards and a touchdown and 144 yards in consecutive weeks to Pittsburgh's Rashard Mendenhall and Cincinnati's Cedric Benson, respectively, and that should have Thomas begging to play. A healthy Thomas is a must-start as a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 6, but things aren't looking good.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) remained unable to practice Wednesday as New Orleans began preparation for their Week 6 game against the Buccaneers. With the Saints acquiring Julius Jones as insurance on Tuesday, Thomas seems like more of a question mark. The addition of Jones does not mean Thomas will miss the Week 6 game but it is definitely an indication that the team still believes a viable backup is very necessary against the Bucs.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to continue to monitor the situation leading up to Sunday. Thomas has carried the ball 46 times this season for 147 yards with one touchdown and has caught 17 passes for another 133 yards. Although only getting 17 carries, Thomas rushed for 152 yards and a touchdown in two games against the Bucs last season. Tampa Bay has given up 143 yards and a touchdown and 144 yards in consecutive weeks to Pittsburgh's Rashard Mendenhall and Cincinnati's Cedric Benson, respectively, and that should have Thomas begging to play. A healthy Thomas is a must-start as a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 6.
News: The New Orleans Saints went out and acquired running back Julius Jones on Tuesday and Jones is expected to play Week 6 at Tampa Bay. Starter Pierre Thomas has been hobbled by a right ankle injury that has seen him miss two games already and New Orleans wants more insurance considering his replacements, Chris Ivory and Ladell Betts, have not fared well. Thomas did not speak to media on Monday but was seen with no tape, sleeve, boot or anything else on his injured ankle. "He’s getting healthy,” coach Sean Payton said. The addition of Jones does not mean Thomas will miss the Week 6 game but it is definitely an indication that the team still believes a viable backup is very necessary against the Bucs.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to continue to monitor the situation leading up to Sunday. Thomas has carried the ball 46 times this season for 147 yards with one touchdown and has caught 17 passes for another 133 yards. Although only getting 17 carries, Thomas rushed for 152 yards and a touchdown in two games against the Bucs last season. Tampa Bay has given up 143 yards and a touchdown and 144 yards in consecutive weeks to Pittsburgh's Rashard Mendenhall and Cincinnati's Cedric Benson, respectively, and that should have Thomas begging to play. A healthy Thomas is a must-start as a No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 6.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas didn't talk to the media Monday morning, but it's a positive sign for him that he had no tape, sleeve, boot or anything else on his injured right ankle other than a sock and a cleat. Thomas has missed the last two games with an injured ankle and is hopeful to return for Week 6 at Tampa Bay. "He’s getting healthy,” coach Sean Payton said.
Analysis: Thomas would be a must-start Fantasy RB against the Bucs if he's able to play in Week 6. He has carried the ball 46 times this season for 147 yards with one touchdown and has caught 17 passes for another 133 yards. With Thomas and Reggie Bush (leg) out, Chris Ivory and Ladell Betts have carried the load the past two weeks, but have not performed up to Thomas' level. Keep an eye on his status in practice, but hopefully Thomas can return this week.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton ruled out RB Pierre Thomas for Week 5. He's dealing with an ankle sprain that must be severe given that this will be his second week out in a row. Ladell Betts and Chris Ivory are expected to divvy up the rushing workload.
Analysis: We had an inkling earlier this week that Thomas wouldn't play, and this cements it. If you own him, get him benched now since he's been ruled out. If you have to choose between his replacements, we like Ivory better than Betts in a matchup against a porous Cardinals run defense
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) missed practice again Thursday as it begins to look likely that he'll miss a second Week 5 at Arizona. In one career game against the Cardinals, he ran for 20 yards of two carries. If Thomas is unable to play on Sunday, RBs Ladell Betts and Chris Ivory will take over the workload.
Analysis: Thomas has carried the ball 46 times this season for 147 yards with one touchdown and has caught 17 passes for another 133 yards. Unless he somehow manages to heal up a ton in the next few days, it will be Betts and Ivory carrying the ball for a second straight week against Arizona. If you own Thomas in Fantasy play, you should probably start preparing to be without him on Sunday. Plan accordingly.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas did not practice Wednesday as New Orleans prepares for its Week 5 game at Arizona. Thomas missed Week 4 with an ankle injury.
Analysis: With Thomas unlikely to be 100 percent for Week 5, the Saints might just choose to rest him against a Cardinals team that has been destroyed in two of their four games this season. If Thomas can somehow get healthy, he would be a must-start No. 1 Fantasy RB for this great matchup. Follow his progress over the next few days.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports the Saints are hoping to get RB Pierre Thomas back for Week 5 at Arizona after he missed Sunday's game in Week 4 against Carolina with an ankle injury. The Saints won't offer a formal injury report until Wednesday, when they hold their first practice of the week. With Thomas out against the Panthers, Chris Ivory and Ladell Betts split carries.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Thomas' status heading into Week 5 against the Cardinals, who have struggled in run defense and just allowed two rushing touchdowns to the Chargers. We would consider Thomas a must-start Fantasy option if he's able to play in this matchup.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) has been ruled out for Week 4 against the Panthers. Ladell Betts will start in his place but Chris Ivory will also get some touches.
Analysis: Be sure to bench Thomas in all Fantasy formats immediately and grab Ivory if you have no real viable option on your bench. When healthy, Thomas is a solid low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option. Follow his progress heading into Week 5 at Arizona.
News:Pierre Thomas is officially listed as questionable on the Saints' Week 4 injury report with what is believed to be an ankle sprain. He was able to practice on a limited basis on Friday in preparation for the Panthers after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday, giving the team some optimism for his availability today. However, some of that optimism was lost on Saturday when the team signed reserve RB DeShawn Wynn from the practice squad to the active roster, a move that might have been made to provide some roster depth in the event Thomas isn't healthy enough to go. ESPN.com reports that it is expected that Thomas will be inactive, but a final decision is pending. CBSSports.com expects to have the official word on Thomas' status before Noon ET Sunday morning, if not sooner.
Analysis: If Thomas misses the matchup against the Panthers and their 14th-ranked run defense, we expect rookie Chris Ivory to land the majority of the rushing workload with veteran Ladell Betts helping him out. If you own Thomas, have someone on your bench ready to replace him in case he doesn't play. Last season in one meeting with Carolina, Thomas was held to 50 yards rushing and a touchdown. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: The Saints have signed RB DeShawn Wynn off the practice squad. There is no news regarding RB Pierre Thomas' injured ankle or what Wynn's presence on the roster means for him entering the Week 4 game against Carolina.
Analysis: While Wynn being added to the active roster doesn't guarantee Thomas is going to miss the Week 4 game, Fantasy owners should take it as a bad sign for his availability or health against Arizona. If Thomas misses the matchup against the Panthers and their 14th-ranked run defense, we expect rookie Chris Ivory to land the majority of the rushing workload with veteran Ladell Betts helping him out. If you own Thomas, have someone on your bench ready to replace him in case he doesn't play. Last season in one meeting with Carolina, Thomas was held to 50 yards rushing and a touchdown.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas practiced on a limited basis on Friday and is questionable for Sunday's game vs. Carolina. Thomas has been dealing with an ankle injury that sounds like a sprain given that coach Sean Payton disclosed that he had swelling earlier in the week; he missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, Payton was a bit more optimistic about Thomas but reaffirmed that he was a game-time decision. "I'm going to have to see some positive signs to feel comfortable and yet I'm hopeful based on the fact that [he] got some work today," Payton said.
Analysis: If Thomas misses the matchup against the Panthers and their 14th-ranked run defense, we expect rookie Chris Ivory to land the majority of the rushing workload with veteran Ladell Betts helping him out. If you own Thomas, have someone on your bench ready to replace him in case he doesn't play. Last season in one meeting with Carolina, Thomas was held to 50 yards rushing and a touchdown. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) practiced on a limited basis on Friday and is questionable for Sunday's Week 4 game vs. Carolina. Thomas missed practice the previous two days and his status is certainly iffy at best.
Analysis: Thomas fell on his ankle last week, and you should keep a close eye on his status Sunday morning when the inactives are released. The Panthers rank 14th in total defense but haven't allowed more than 85 yards to any single rusher this season. Last season in one meeting with Carolina, Thomas was held to 50 yards rushing and a touchdown. If healthy, Thomas will be worth a shot as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. If you own Thomas, it might not be a terrible idea to find a roster spot for rookie RB Chris Ivory just in case Thomas misses the game. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Saints coach Sean Payton says he'll wait until Sunday to decide whether hobbled RB Pierre Thomas plays against Carolina. Thomas missed his second-straight practice on Thursday with a left ankle injury that occurred during the Saints' 27-24 overtime loss to Atlanta last Sunday. While Payton seldom allows offensive players to suit up for games when they've missed practice throughout the previous week, he says Thomas knows the Saints' system well enough to play without taking part in the installation of the game plan. The Saints are already playing without injured running back Reggie Bush.
Analysis: Thomas had some swelling on Wednesday, and a day later he's clearly still not ready to test his ankle yet after falling on it in Week 3. Keep an eye on his status the rest of this week heading into what should be an OK Week 4 matchup against the Panthers, who rank 14th in total defense but haven't allowed more than 85 yards to any single rusher this season. Last season in one meeting with Carolina, Thomas was held to 50 yards rushing and a touchdown. If healthy, Thomas will be worth a shot as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. If you own Thomas, it might not be a terrible idea to find a roster spot for rookie RB Chris Ivory just in case Thomas misses the game.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ankle) did not practice Wednesday. Thomas hurt himself in the fourth quarter of last week's loss to the Falcons when his leg folded underneath him. Head coach Sean Payton said the team isn't interested in adding any running backs to the roster at this moment. "We'll see where Pierre is at [Thursday]," Payton said. "Really, he had some swelling. Fortunately the soreness for him is not as significant as you might expect with some ankles. It's not a high ankle sprain; it's not any of that, but there is swelling enough to where we held him out [Wednesday]."
Analysis: Thomas was able to return from his injury in Week 3, but Fantasy owners had to be very worried when it initially happened as the injury didn't look pretty at all. Hopefully the Saints are just giving Thomas an extra day to heal up on Wednesday, so keep an eye on his status the rest of this week heading into what should be a good Week 4 matchup against the Panthers. If healthy, Thomas will be worth a shot as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. If you own Thomas, it might not be a terrible idea to find a roster spot for rookie RB Chris Ivory just in case Thomas misses the game.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas didn't do much as a rusher in Sunday's overtime loss against Atlanta, but he did play well as a receiver in Week 3. Thomas had nine carries for 30 yards, but he also added six catches for 61 yards. He was targeted six times. Thomas had an apparent scare in the fourth quarter when he injured his leg and left the game, but he was able to return.
Analysis: Thomas should be fine heading into Week 4 against Carolina, but continue to monitor his status. The Saints need Thomas to be healthy with Reggie Bush (leg) out, which is why Thomas continues to play well as a receiver out of the backfield. We consider Thomas a No. 1 Fantasy RB, and he should remain active in all leagues. Look for him to play well against the Panthers at home.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is looking to step up in Week 3 against Atlanta with Reggie Bush (broken leg) now out. Thomas, who has 37 carries for 117 yards and one touchdown and 11 catches for 72 yards on the season, is ready to do more. "We just got to have guys step up to take the challenge," Thomas said. "I believe in my team, and I believe in myself." Thomas will likely be asked for more production against the Falcons, who have allowed a rushing touchdown and a 100-yard performance in each game this season against the Steelers and Cardinals. In his past three games against the Falcons, Thomas has at least 100 total yards in each outing with four total touchdowns.
Analysis: We consider Thomas a must-start Fantasy option in this matchup with the Falcons. He has a good history against Atlanta, the Falcons have been vulnerable on the ground and Thomas will see a boost in touches with Bush out. Keep Thomas active in all leagues this week.
News: The loss of running back Reggie Bush to a broken right fibula, an injury confirmed to The Sports Xchange on Tuesday by agent Joel Segal and a team official not approved to publicly discuss the injury, likely won't change the design of the New Orleans Saints' diverse passing game. But it will change the personnel, which could be a huge benefit to RB Pierre Thomas. "We're still working on the plan, but Pierre (Thomas) will probably get some more snaps, and we'll probably change some stuff with our receivers," a Saints coach said. "It will take a little tinkering." The Saints will play the Falcons in Week 3.
Analysis: Thomas, who had a career-best 39 catches in 2009 and has averaged 35 receptions over the past two seasons, actually had more catches (11) and yards (72) than Bush this year. Thomas, though, lacks Bush's open-field ability. But the fact he stands to gain some touches with Bush sidelined, then that significantly increases Thomas' Fantasy appeal. Consider Thomas a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 3.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas led the Saints in receptions during Week 2 against the 49ers. Thomas had a hard time finding running lanes in the 25-22 victory, but had a team-high eight receptions and finished with 57 yards receiving. He was only able to rack up 46 yards rushing on 18 carries and averaged just 2.6 yards a carry. Thomas' longest run went for just 7 yards and he did not score in the contest.
Analysis: Thomas' eight receptions were the result of two factors Monday night. First, the 49ers did an excellent job stopping the run. They held the Saints to just 50 net yards rushing and bottled Thomas up all night. And second, the wind was swirling around all game long, which prevented both quarterbacks from taking deep shots down the field. Instead, Drew Brees dumped the ball off underneath the his backs and tight ends. While Thomas didn't score on Monday, he still put up 103 total yards of offense against a good defense. Things might get a little easier for Thomas in Week 3 as he faces the Falcons in New Orleans. Atlanta allowed 118 yards rushing in Week 2 to the Cardinals. Consider Thomas a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into Week 3.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas has tough matchup in his Week 2 opponent-- San Francisco. The 49ers allowed just 77 yards rushing in Week 1, holding the Seahawks to 3.3 yards per carry. San Francisco did allow a rushing touchdown to Seattle, but it was on quarterback sneak. Thomas has just 10 yards on four carries in two career games against the 49ers. However, that was before he became the featured back in New Orleans.
Analysis: Thomas finished with 19 carries for 71 yards with a touchdown in Week 1 and also caught three balls for 15 yards. The Saints are a team that likes to pass the ball, so relying on a power running game is not a must. However, when they do run the ball, Thomas gets the bulk of the carries. He has four TDs over his past three games, but might be hard pressed to find running lanes with the likes of Patrick Willis and Takeo Spikes on the opposite side of the ball. Consider him a low-end No.2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB heading into Week 2 against the 49ers
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas came up big once again for New Orleans against Minnesota. After scoring twice (one receiving) in playoff game against the Vikings last season, Thomas had another clutch touchdown in Week 1 against Minnesota, this time sealing a 14-9 victory. Thomas' 1-yard touchdown plunge in the third quarter put New Orleans ahead for good after trailing 9-7 at halftime. Thomas finished with 19 carries for 71 yards, his longest gain going 11 yards. He also had three catches for 15 yards. Thomas did most of his damage against Minnesota in the second half. Nineteen of his touches came in the second half, which included five carries on the last drive that sealed the win for New Orleans. "I know we didn't run the ball a lot in the first half," Thomas said. "I told my position coach (Bret Ingalls) we needed to get something going and be a little bit more balanced. He felt the same way. Coach (Sean Payton) knew it."
Analysis: It wasn't a 100-yard performance, but Thomas still got double-digit points for Fantasy owners. The Saints are a team that likes to pass the ball, so relying on a power running game is not a must. Thomas is still the lead back for New Orleans, but don't expect a lot of dominating performances. He had just one 100-yard rushing game in 2009. Consider Thomas at best a No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into Week 2 against the 49ers. He is going to find it tough going at linebackers Patrick Willis and Takeo Spikes.
News: RB Pierre Thomas is coming off a season in which he led the Saints in rushing with a career-high 793 rushing yards. But if he wants to get the 2010 season started on the right foot, then he will have to persevere against one of the best run defenses in the NFL. Thomas and the Saints open the season on Thursday against the Vikings. Minnesota trailed only NFC North rival Green Bay in run defense in 2009, holding teams to 87.1 rushing yards per game. Minnesota gave up five rushing touchdowns in 16 regular-season games.
Analysis: The Vikings run defense was just as stingy in the NFC title game against New Orleans, holding them to 68 rushing yards on 23 attempts. However, Thomas paced the effort with 61 yards and one touchdown on 14 carries. He also had two receptions for 38 yards and one score. Clearly, the Vikings defense is beatable, but it is no small order. Thomas is going to have to scratch and claw for every yard against Minnesota, so look to him more of a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 1.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas rushed seven times for 41 yards in Friday's preseason game against the Chargers. He also caught two passes for 17 yards. Thomas played the entire first half along with most of the team's first unit. He came into the game with 15 carries for 51 yards in the first two games of the preseason.
Analysis: Thomas and the Saints looked ready to go with an impressive showing in the first half. The only somewhat troubling factor to come out of Friday's game was that rookie Chris Ivory had an eye-opening performance to continue a solid preseason and could be earning himself some regular season touches. It's too early to declare the Saints running game a three-headed monster with Thomas, Reggie Bush and Ivory, but it is something to monitor and keep in mind. Thomas should end up being the Saints back with the most total touches by the end of the season, regardless. We like him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4.
News: On his first carry vs. the Texans on Saturday, Saints RB Pierre Thomas landed awkwardly and left the field with what looked like a concussion. Thankfully he returned shortly thereafter and had plenty of work, racking up 24 yards on seven carries and 38 yards on two catches including a 31-yard touchdown on a nifty catch-and-run from backup QB Chase Daniel. Through two preseason games Thomas has 115 yards on 21 touches.
Analysis: Thomas should end up being the Saints back with the most total touches by the end of the season. They're evaluating other backs to help ease his workload, but he finds ways to rack up total yardage in most weeks. We like him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4 so long as he stays healthy.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was effective both carrying and catching the ball during Thursday's preseason opener against the Patriots. He rushed eight times for 27 yards, and caught all four passes thrown his way for 26 yards.
Analysis: Thomas should see more carries than the 147 he received in 2009 following the departure of Mike Bell and season-ending injury to Lynell Hamilton. He's used as a receiver as well, averaging 35 receptions over the past two years. Expect him to increase his rushing yards and touchdowns this season, which would make him a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: With the season-ending injury to backup RB Lynell Hamilton in practice on Wednesday, the Saints are likely to put more work on the plate of starter Pierre Thomas. Hamilton was a candidate to work at the goal line and in short-yardage situations in 2010, but those roles could go to Thomas. The Saints could always add another back via free agency or trade.
Analysis: We're sure the Saints will take a look at another running back, but that back might be brought in to compete with the other runners on the roster and might not be qualified to shoulder the key parts of Thomas' workload -- including valuable goal-line duty. We're not forgetting Reggie Bush, who also might see an increased slate of reps with Hamilton gone. But Thomas should be in line for the most carries he's had yet in his career, which should yield lots of yardage and touchdowns. We've been fans of his for a long time and like him even more as a quality No. 2 RB now that Hamilton is out of the picture. Hopefully other running backs will stay out of the picture as well.
News: The X-rays on the injured left wrist for Saints RB Pierre Thomas were negative, coach Sean Payton said. The timetable Payton gave for Thomas' return was, "Just soon. The next couple of days." Thomas went through walkthroughs Wednesday, catching passes.
Analysis: It's a good thing that Thomas should be back soon, and we're expecting big things from him in 2010. He remains a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4 so long as he stays healthy and his wrist injury isn't an issue. Continue to monitor his status, but it sounds like Thomas will be 100 percent by the time Week 1 is here.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas left practice Tuesday after teammate Roman Harper hit his left wrist. Thomas took a handoff during a red-zone drill and fumbled as he got hit. Trainers addressed Thomas before taking him off the field, but head coach Sean Payton said that Thomas should be fine as he has just a bruise on the wrist.
Analysis: Thomas has been a solid contributor for the Saints, but he's had more than his fair share of injuries over the last few seasons. Luckily this one looks like a false alarm but last year he missed a chunk of training camp with a knee injury that slowed him for the start of the season. He remains a good No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between Rounds 3 and 4 so long as he stays healthy and his wrist injury isn't an issue.
News: Saints GM Mickey Loomis said Thursday that negotiations for a long-term deal are still ongoing with RB Pierre Thomas, who signed a one-year deal this offseason as a restricted free agent. "He's here," Loomis said. "He's under contract. He signed the one-year tender offer. We had some discussions with he and his agent, and I don't know how to characterize those other than to say that I think they've been cordial. We'll see what happens." Loomis was asked if Thomas would get a long-term deal before the beginning of the regular season. "I don't have an expectation either way," Loomis said. "All I can say is that we've had some discussions. We've had difference of opinion. We're still talking."
Analysis: It sounds like Thomas won't be signing a new contract any time soon, which actually helps his Fantasy value. The motivation for a new deal could help him have a big year, and we like him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB. Thomas is worth drafting in Round 3 or 4 in all leagues. He'll still share carries with Reggie Bush, but Thomas benefits with Mike Bell now in Philadelphia.
News:Pierre Thomas signed his one-year restricted free agent tender offer from the New Orleans Saints on Monday, but he wants to negotiate a longer and more lucrative deal before training camp opens at the end of July. Thomas' agent said the rusher was not expected to attend the Saints' voluntary offseason practices this week but added that Thomas was in New Orleans and likely would attend the club's championship ring ceremony at a downtown hotel on Wednesday.
Analysis: Thomas led the Saints in yards rushing (793) and rushing touchdowns (six) last season, averaging 5.4 yards per carry. Thomas also had 302 yards and two TDs receiving. His 1,095 yards and eight touchdowns from scrimmage in 2009 compared favorably to Reggie Bush's 725 yards and eight TDs, but Bush will make $8 million in 2010. Now you can see why Thomas is unhappy with his deal. But the fact remains that he signed on for this season, keeping him in the fold as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between late Round 3 and late Round 4 in all drafts this summer.
News: The Saints have made one long-term contract offer to RB Pierre Thomas since the Super Bowl, and the value was not close to what he was seeking, Thomas' agent said. "The Saints have refused to negotiate with us. They've given us one proposal," agent Lamont Smith said Wednesday. "Pierre made the NFL minimum (salary) the last three years and was their leading rusher the last two. He made all the plays necessary. ... He's done all the right things. He played his (first) contract out." The Saints generally do not discuss ongoing negotiations, and when asked to respond to Smith's comments, GM Mickey Loomis said only that Smith "is correct that we are far apart." Thomas, who signed a three-year contract with the Saints as an undrafted rookie in 2007, is a restricted free agent. The Saints tendered him a one-year offer of about $1.7 million. Because the period when Thomas could sign more lucrative offers from other teams has passed, the Saints have Thomas' rights for 2010. Thomas wants a longer extension worth far more than the lone multi-year offer New Orleans has made so far, which was the reason he skipped the Saints' mandatory minicamp last weekend and has remained absent for voluntary practices.
Analysis: Thomas led the Saints in yards rushing (793) and rushing touchdowns (six) last season and also had 302 yards and two TDs receiving. His 1,095 yards and eight touchdowns from scrimmage in 2009 compared favorably to Reggie Bush's 725 yards and eight TDs from scrimmage. Bush is slated to earn around $8 million next season. Because Thomas has not signed his tender, he cannot be fined for missing mandatory practices and could become a training camp holdout if the two sides do not start moving closer soon. We hope that Thomas is not a holdout because he has the chance for a bigger role this season with Mike Bell now in Philadelphia. If everything gets workout with his contract and Thomas shows up for the start of training camp he should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick beginning in Round 3 or 4. If he's a holdout then his value will drop depending on how much time he's out.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was not at Friday morning's minicamp practice because of a contract dispute. "There's no update, and I wouldn't say it caught us off-guard because we didn't have (Thomas) in the last OTA," coach Sean Payton said. Thomas, a restricted free agent, is looking for a long-term contract.
Analysis: Thomas is expected to take on a bigger load for the Saints this season with Mike Bell now in Philadelphia. In 2009, Thomas had 1,095 yards rushing and receiving, with eight touchdowns in the regular season, then added 254 combined yards and three touchdowns in the postseason. We like Thomas as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB this year whether or not he signs a long-term deal. He will share carries again with Reggie Bush, and Lynell Hamilton is expected to take on a bigger load with Bell gone, but Thomas should still excel in 2010. He is worth drafting as early as Round 3 or 4 in all leagues.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas hasn't been participating in OTA workouts through the first two sessions. The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that it's not clear how long Thomas plans to stay away from the practice field. So far, all of the team activities have been voluntary. The June 4-6 minicamp is the first mandatory team activity. It's possible that Thomas' absence might have nothing to do with his contract talks. Last week his cousin was shot in Chicago, and Thomas had tweeted that he was in Chicago visiting him in the hospital. But Thomas apparently has not asked for an excused absence from OTAs. Earlier this offseason, Thomas said he didn't plan to skip any team activities during the contract talks. "I'm going to show up, just because that's my attitude and my personality," Thomas said.
Analysis: We hope Thomas will be ready for the start of training camp, which is what matters most heading into the season. Thomas is expected to take on a bigger load for the Saints this season with Mike Bell now in Philadelphia. We like Thomas as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB this year. He will share carries again with Reggie Bush, and Lynell Hamilton is expected to take on a bigger load with Bell gone, but Thomas should still excel in 2010. He is worth drafting as early as Round 3 in all leagues.
News: The TV station Fox 8 in New Orleans reports the Saints could have a long-term contract offer to RB Pierre Thomas in the near future. The report states the Saints tendered Thomas at a second-round level after the season, a one-year deal that would have been worth $1.68 million. Thomas has not signed that tender in hopes of reaching a long-term agreement with the team.
Analysis: Thomas is expected to take on a bigger load for the Saints this season with Mike Bell now in Philadelphia. In 2009, Thomas had 1,095 yards rushing and receiving, with eight touchdowns in the regular season, then added 254 combined yards and three touchdowns in the postseason. We like Thomas as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB this year whether or not he signs a long-term deal. He will share carries again with Reggie Bush, and Lynell Hamilton is expected to take on a bigger load with Bell gone, but Thomas should still excel in 2010. He is worth drafting as early as Round 3 in all leagues.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Saints RB Pierre Thomas is looking to improve in 2010 and take on a bigger role with Mike Bell now with the Eagles. In 2009, Thomas had 1,095 yards rushing and receiving, with eight touchdowns in the regular season, then added 254 combined yards and three touchdowns in the postseason. Thomas said he still expects the Saints to add another tailback to help replace Bell, either through free agency or the draft. And he expects third-year power back Lynell Hamilton to play an increased role along with Reggie Bush. But Thomas stressed that, "any time my name gets called, I want to be able to succeed. Even if they want to bring another guy in, if they want to bring in a big back, I also want to make sure they have a backup, and I can be that backup guy."
Analysis: Thomas is a restricted free agent this offseason and the Saints offered Thomas a one-year, $1.684 million qualifying contract. But clearly both sides will want to talk about a more lucrative long-term extension, either this offseason or after the 2010 season. Thomas, however, said he has no plans to skip any team activities this offseason to hold out for an extension. "I'm going to show up, " he said, "just because that's my attitude and my personality." We like Thomas a No. 2 Fantasy RB this year, and he should see more touches with Bell gone. Consider Thomas worth a draft pick around Round 4 in all leagues.
News: Speaking at Super Bowl XLIV Media Day, Saints RB Pierre Thomas said that his weight fluctuated this season, and that combined with nagging injuries that dated back to last season (a strained PCL in his knee included) kept him from being more effective early in the 2009 season. One thing Thomas wants to do is establish himself further as a physical runner next year. "I see my running style as a more powerful runner. I'm not that fast of a guy like Reggie. I am a little shifty but it's not quick. I'll give you one move and that's it," Thomas said. "I wanted to really establish myself as a North-South, power, pushing the ball through the holes, getting the tough yards, fighting for the extra yards. That's what a lot of people look at me as, a guy who fights for extra yards and is not easy to take down. ... Over the next year I can keep that steady 220, 225 pounds maybe and be that power guy they're looking for."
Analysis: Thomas had a productive year but didn't have the opportunities we hoped he'd have because of his injuries. It's probably that factor that opened the door for Mike Bell to have such a significant role in the offense for the first two-thirds of the season. Thomas finished with 793 yards on 147 carries (a solid 5.4 yards per run) with six rushing touchdowns, adding career-bests through the air with 302 yards on 39 carries and two more scores. At this point, he's a middle- to low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick starting around Round 5 in 2010 league play, though there's room to improve pending what the Saints do with their other running backs this offseason.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas ran 14 times for 61 yards and one touchdown as the Saints defeated Minnesota 31-28 in overtime on Sunday. Thomas also caught two passes for 38 yards and another touchdown in the victory.
Analysis: The two touchdowns from Thomas match a season-high for Thomas. The Saints will need as much firepower as possible against the Colts and Thomas will be needed to get some quality touches. He is expected to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for 2010, worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 7.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas ran 13 times for 52 yards and caught four passes for 18 yards in Saturday's Divisional playoff win over the Cardinals.
Analysis: Thomas took a seat late in Saturday's win as the Saints rested him in preparation for next week's NFC Championship game. He is expected to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for 2010, worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 7.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (ribs) is active for the Divisional Playoff game against the Cardinals on Saturday. Thomas should not be limited.
Analysis: Thomas is a fantastic running back when healthy and given the chance to run. It remains to be seen what his role will be in the future, but he'll help the Saints run game now if he can take the pain that comes with having broken ribs. Thomas is expected to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for 2010, worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 7 in drafts this summer.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who has a team-high 793 rushing yards, sat out the Carolina game with three cracked ribs he sustained a week earlier against Tampa Bay. He said Monday he was not sure he would be totally healthy for the playoffs. "I might be close to 90 percent, but I'm going to try to reach 100 percent," he said. "I know it's going to take time. I probably won't get there."
Analysis: Thomas is a fantastic running back when healthy and given the chance to run. It remains to be seen what his role will be in the future, but he'll help the Saints run game now if he can take the pain that comes with having broken ribs. Thomas is expected to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB for 2010, worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 7 in drafts this summer.
News: The Saints have listed the following players as inactive for Week 17 at Carolina: DB Darren Sharper, DL Sedrick Ellis, WR Lance Moore, RB Pierre Thomas, DB Usama Young, LB Scott Shanle, TE David Thomas and 3rd QB Drew Brees. Lynell Hamilton could see the bulk of the carries as the running back for the Saints.
Analysis: If you own Thomas, Hamilton is an excellent option to use in his place. In fact, Hamilton is worth a look off waivers regardless of if you have Thomas or not. He could see at least 15 total touches against the Panthers, who have struggled with opposing running backs all season. Thomas had a solid season but is no longer needed in Fantasy play until the playoffs.
News: With the Saints not playing for anything in Week 17 and opting to likely rest their starters for some of the game, the team determined Friday that RB Pierre Thomas won't play. He's been ruled out for the game at Carolina. Mike Bell and Lynell Hamilton will likely share his workload with Hamilton in line for a decent day in mop-up duty.
Analysis: If you own Thomas, Hamilton is an excellent option to use in his place. In fact, Hamilton is worth a look off waivers regardless of if you have Thomas or not. He could see at least 15 total touches against the Panthers, who have struggled with opposing running backs all season.
News: Sean Payton says he'll draw on experience from his first season in New Orleans when the Saints line up against Carolina on Sunday. In 2006, the Saints were locked into the second seed in the NFC and pulled their starters early in their final regular season game, which was also against the Panthers. New Orleans went on to lose 31-21, but beat Philadelphia in the playoffs two weeks later. On Thursday, Payton said his players' health trumps other considerations, even though he's concerned about the Saints' sliding performance during a two-game losing streak after a 13-0 start. While the coach assures that he'll be trying to snap that skid, he says the players he'll try to win with could change on Sunday.
Analysis: This move will likely impact QB Drew Brees, WR Marques Colston, WR Lance Moore, WR Robert Meachem, TE Jeremy Shockey, RB Reggie Bush and RB Pierre Thomas. Thomas left last week's game with a rib injury, giving the Saints even more incentive to sit him Week 17 at Carolina. He missed practice for a second straight day Thursday because of the injury. Avoid starting him this week if you have any viable alternatives.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (rib) could not practice on Wednesday in preparation for Week 17 at Carolina. Thomas underwent an MRI on his bruised ribs and the results came back negative.
Analysis: The Saints have locked up the No. 1 spot in the NFC playoff picture and that could mean they choose to rest their starting running back Week 17 at Carolina. Continue to monitor this situation throughout the practice week but Thomas is banged up and he Saints don't want to risk losing him for the playoffs.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had tests done on his bruised ribs after the Bucs loss, and the MRI results were negative, according to coach Sean Payton. He didn't elaborate on Thomas' availability for Sunday's regular-season finale at Carolina. "He'll just have to battle through with regards to soreness," Payton said.
Analysis: If the Saints have the luxury to rest their starters, you can almost count on Thomas not playing in Week 17. But if the Saints need to win to lock up the No. 1 seed in the NFC, we could see Thomas in a limited role. We'll keep you posted on this; if he's healthy and expected to play a lot, consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas rushed six times for 60 yards and an 8-yard TD run in the 1st quarter in the Week 16 game against the Bucs before leaving the game due to injury. Thomas did not come out for the second half as he suffered bruised ribs. It wasn't apparent on which play he was injured.
Analysis: Thomas got into the end zone on the ground for the first time since Week 9 of the season but left the game due to injury. Hopefully this was just as a precaution with the Saints heading towards the playoffs. He’s been doing a lot of his damage in recent weeks through the receiving game and that should continue in Week 17 at Carolina, if he's able to play. He rushed for 50 yards and the touchdown the last time he played the Panthers back in that Week 9 game mentioned earlier. Be careful of the Saints resting their players in the season’s final week but we still like Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, if he can play.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas ran six times for 20 yards and caught five passes for 50 yards in a Week 15 loss to Dallas.
Analysis: For a third straight week, Thomas did a lot more damage in the receiving game than he did on the ground. He has obviously found his niche in the Saints offense and will head into Week 16 against the sorry Buccaneers as a No. 2 Fantasy RB. His value is a little higher in PPR leagues.
News:Pierre Thomas (hip) and Mike Bell (wrist, knee) were activated for Week 15 against Dallas. Both were listed as probable on the injury report and had been expected to play.
Analysis: Thomas has rushed 19 times for only 65 total yards over his last two games but he does have 14 receptions over that span. He's definitely become a pass-first running back for the Saints and that should be enough to keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 15, if he's active as expected. Bell is not a recommended Fantasy starter at this stage.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (hip) was limited in practice for a third straight day Friday in preparation for Week 15 against Dallas. Thomas is listed as probable.
Analysis: Thomas has rushed 19 times for only 65 total yards over his last two games but he does have 14 receptions over that span. He's definitely become a pass-first running back for the Saints and that should be enough to keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 15, if he's active as expected.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (hip) kept him limited in practice for a second straight day Thursday in preparation for Week 15 against Dallas. Thomas should be fine for the game but is preliminarily listed as questionable.
Analysis: Thomas has rushed 19 times for only 65 total yards over his last two games but he does have 14 receptions over that span. He's definitely become a pass-first running back for the Saints and that should be enough to keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 15, if he's healthy as expected.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas is dealing with a hip issue that kept him limited in practice on Wednesday in preparation for Week 15 against Dallas. Thomas should be fine for the game but is preliminarily listed as questionable.
Analysis: Thomas has rushed 19 times for 65 total yards over his last two games but he does have 14 receptions over that span. He's definitely become a pass-first running back for the Saints and that should be enough to keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for Week 15, if he's healthy as expected.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was the team’s leading ball carrier on Sunday in a Week 14 win over the Falcons, but he was more effective as a receiver. Thomas got 13 carries in the game, gaining 47 yards on the ground. Through the air, Thomas made six receptions for a total of 53 yards. He finished with an even 100 yards in the game.
Analysis: Thomas was expected to see an increase in production with Mike Bell out and that occurred to an extent. 13 carries were the most Thomas has been given since Week 9 against Carolina when he also carried the ball 13 times. The Saints are a pass-first team, giving Thomas added value in PPR formats as he has 14 total receptions in his past two games. Think of Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 15 on Saturday against the Cowboys’ above-average run defense. If Bell is able to return to action, Thomas’ Fantasy value would go down slightly.
News: New Orleans RB Mike Bell (knee) has been ruled out of the team's Week 14 game at Atlanta. Pierre Thomas will get more carries in Thomas' absence.
Analysis: Bell would have been a decent flex start had he been healthy for this game, but should be benched in all formats. Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas will see an increase in carries with Bell's absence.
News: ESPN reports that Saints RB Mike Bell (knee) won't play in Week 14 at Atlanta.
Analysis: Bell would have been a decent flex start had he been healthy for this game, but you should now probably bench him in all formats and just double check the inactives list when it's released around 11:30 a.m. ET. Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas will see an increase in carries with Bell's absence.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas (quadricep) was a limited participant in practice all week as the team prepares for its Week 14 game at Atlanta. He is considered probable for the contest. Thomas rushed just six times for 18 yards in the Week 13 win over the Redskins but had eight receptions for 64 yards.
Analysis: Thomas is the team's primary ball carrier but Mike Bell got the most carries in Week 13 and Reggie Bush got the start. This creates a bit of a jumble but Thomas will remain the top Fantasy option of the three for Week 14 at Atlanta. Thomas could do well against the Falcons' porous rush defense. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas rushed just six times for 18 yards in the Week 13 win over the Redskins. The Saints played from behind for much of the game. Thomas added eight catches for 64 yards.
Analysis: Thomas is the team's primary ball carrier but Mike Bell got the most carries in Week 13 and Reggie Bush got the start. This creates a bit of a jumble but Thomas will remain the top Fantasy option of the three for Week 14 at Atlanta. Thomas could do well against the Falcon's porous rush defense. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (wrist) is active, as expected, for Week 13 at Washington.
Analysis: Thomas should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for this matchup with Washington.
News: Saints RB Mike Bell (knee, neck) and RB Pierre Thomas (wrist) went through limited practice reps again on Friday as the team prepares for Week 13 at Washington, but both are listed as probable for the contest.
Analysis: Thomas should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for this matchup with Washington, while Bell is more of a flex start.
News: Saints RB Reggie Bush (knee), RB Mike Bell (knee, neck) and RB Pierre Thomas (wrist) all went through limited practice reps on Thursday as the team prepares for Week 13 at Washington.
Analysis: Bush has missed a few games resting his bum knee, but Bell and Thomas have done a fine job in his place. We aren't sure if Bush will play in Week 13, so Fantasy owners need to follow his status up to inactives. Thomas should be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, while Bell is more of a flex start.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas (wrist) was listed as limited in practice on Wednesday as the team prepares for its Week 13 game at Washington. Thomas rushed 11 times for 64 yards with a long of 26 yards in the Week 12 win over New England.
Analysis: Thomas scored his second receiving touchdown of the season in the game against the Patriots and rushed for decent yardage. Thomas has been solid both in the passing and running game for the Saints and is continually a threat to rush for near 100 yards and get into the end zone. The Saints play at Washington in Week 13 and the Redskins are not very good against the run. Treat Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for that game even though he'll likely continue to lose touches to Mike Bell and potentially Reggie Bush.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas rushed 11 times for 64 yards with a long of 26 yards in the Week 12 win over New England at home on Monday night. Thomas added three catches for 23 yards and scored on a nifty 18-yard catch-and-run from Drew Brees in the 2nd quarter.
Analysis: Thomas scored his second receiving touchdown of the season in the game against the Patriots and rushed for decent yardage. Thomas has been solid both in the passing and running game for the Saints and is continually a threat to rush for near 100 yards and get into the end zone. Thomas must always deal with Mike Bell and Reggie Bush, who didn’t play in Week 12 but will likely return in Week 13, stealing some of his carries. Still, the Saints play at Washington in Week 13 and the Redskins are not very good against the run. Treat Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB for that game.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas saw more carries go to Mike Bell, along with two touchdowns, but he still had a decent stat line: 92 yards on 11 carries with 11 yards on three catches. Thomas and the Saints played the Bucs in Tampa Bay in Week 11; the majority of Bell's carries in the game came in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Thomas will face a tough matchup in Week 12 vs. New England. He'll likely continue to lose touches to Mike Bell, not to mention also potentially lose work to Reggie Bush, so consider him a No. 2 Fantasy RB at best next week. He might actually be best off as a No. 3 option if you can help it.
News: Saints RB Reggie Bush led all Saints running backs with 83 yards in Week 10 at St. Louis. He ran the ball just six times, however. He also caught two passes for 15 yards and had a touchdown both rushing and receiving. Pierre Thomas rushed a team-high 11 times in the game, but got just 37 yards. Mike Bell rushed eight times for 30 yards.
Analysis: Bush did his damage in limited touches. Meanwhile, Thomas and Bell did a lot of running into the back of offensive linemen in the game and picked up limited yards. Thomas had one run for 11 yards and Bell's longest run went for 6 yards. Despite what appeared to be a breakout game for Bush, Thomas remains the top option in the running game. Week 10 was the first time in two games that Thomas went without a touchdown. He has been good for around 10-15 carries, but the yardage continues to carry. View him as a low-end No. 2 RB or solid No. 3 running back for Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had 13 carries for 50 yards and five catches for 31 yards against the Panthers in Week 9, scoring on 10-yard run in the third quarter. He now has six touchdowns in his last six games.
Analysis: Thomas topped 80 total yards for the second straight game after going two games without it. Even more important, he got the vast majority of the touches Sunday, leaving only five for Mike Bell. He seems to have reclaimed his role as the feature back in the Saints backfield, making him a must-start in Fantasy again. He can sometimes get lost in the Saints' pass-heavy attack, but he has a terrific matchup Week 10 at St. Louis. Expect him to produce the numbers of a No. 1 Fantasy RB, especially if the Saints spend most of the game running out the clock.
News: The Saints host the Panthers in Week 9 as New Orleans looks to stop coach John Fox's domination over them (Fox is 10-4 vs. N.O.). Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who didn't start in either game vs. Carolina last season, will be looking to match his touchdown tally from Week 8, when he found the end zone twice vs. the Falcons. Carolina ranks 24th vs. the run and stuffed Arizona last Sunday.
Analysis: Mike Bell is being a pain for Thomas' owners, as he continues to steal carries away. Still, Thomas appears to be the goal-line back with Sean Payton's confidence for now, so feel free to use Thomas as a mid to low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB for Week 9.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who hadn't scored a touchdown since Week 4 against the Jets, scored two Week 8 against the Falcons, one on a 22-yard run in the first quarter and the other one a 1-yard catch in the fourth. He finished with 14 carries for 91 yards and had two catches for 9 yards. He also lost a fumble.
Analysis: Mike Bell got 17 carries to Thomas' 14, so he remains a thorn in Thomas' side and enough of a goal-line threat to make Thomas less than a must-start in Fantasy. Still, Thomas has the better big-play ability of the two, which makes him the better Fantasy option. Despite his lack of touchdowns, he has averaged 94.8 yards from scrimmage over his last five games. Keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy RB against the Panthers in Week 9.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had a forgettable performance in the team's Week 7 win over the Dolphins. Thomas carried the ball eight times in the game for a total of 30 yards. His longest run went for 9 yards as Thomas failed to find the end zone. Thomas also was able to make one catch that went for 14 yards.
Analysis: Thomas has been splitting carries with Mike Bell, who actually got the lion's share of the rushing attempts in Week 7. That's a disturbing trend for Fantasy owners as it seemed like Bell was the favored RB. Thomas' Fantasy value has certainly taken a hit because of Bell's presence in New Orleans, making Bell just a No. 3 Fantasy option against the Falcons in Week 8.
News: The Saints visit the Dolphins in Week 7, and New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas might have his work cut out for him against the NFL's third-ranked run defense. Miami is allowing just 76.4 yards a game on the ground.
Analysis: Thomas split carries 50/50 last week with Mike Bell, a fact that has to be infuriating Thomas' owners who took him in the third or fourth round of most drafts expecting him to get the large percentage of carries. Bell has also been stealing goal-line work away from Thomas, so with this hard matchup your best bet might be to start Bell as just a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 7.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas rushed for a team-high 72 yards in Week 6 against the Giants. He split carries with Mike Bell evenly, with both running backs getting 15 carries.
Analysis: Thomas got the yards on Sunday, but Mike Bell got the touches down near the goal line and took away from what could have been a huge day for Thomas. We could be headed for a bit of a Fantasy headache here with Thomas and Bell, but we still feel Thomas is the stronger option. He will face a strong run defense in Week 7 at the Dolphins.
News: Saints RBs Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell are both active and will play in Week 6 against the Giants. They had been listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Thomas should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB. Bell is a low-end Fantasy RB since he will be third on the depth chart behind Thomas and Reggie Bush. Both players appear to be safe plays Week 6.
News: New Orleans RBs Mike Bell (knee) and Pierre Thomas (hamstring) have been listed as probable for the team's Week 6 game against the Giants. Bell was able to participate in practice in full all week while Thomas was limited.
Analysis: Assuming Thomas is active against the Giants, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB. Bell appears like he will return against the Giants, but he's a low-end Fantasy RB since he will be third on the depth chart behind Thomas and Reggie Bush. Both players appear to be safe plays Week 6.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was limited in practice again Thursday with a hamstring injury while Mike Bell (knee) practiced in full.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Thomas and hope he is 100 percent for Week 6 against the Giants. When healthy, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB. Bell appears like he will return against the Giants, but he's a low-end Fantasy RB since he will be third on the depth chart behind Thomas and Reggie Bush.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was limited Wednesday with a hamstring injury, but the Saints are expected to have both Thomas and fellow back Mike Bell (knee) back for Sunday's game against the Giants. Coach Sean Payton said he's not sure how he will split the carries. "Mike Bell is back, and we just want to see the progress of how he's doing and how Pierre is doing," coach Sean Payton said. Thomas said no one has spoken to him about the running back rotation plan. He anticipates the team will keep a good rotation and try to keep the fresh legs on the field at all times. Bell, who has missed the past two games with a sprained MCL in his knee, is being cautious about his return. "I don't feel like I have the mentality of running timid in my nature," Bell said.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Thomas over the next two days of practice, but the Saints are optimistic he will play against the Giants. We would anticipate Thomas being the starter but sharing carries with Reggie Bush and Bell, who appears on his way back following the knee injury. Consider Thomas a No. 2 Fantasy RB against the Giants, Bush a No. 3 RB or flex option and Bell a low-end Fantasy RB depending on if he's given full clearance to return this week.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, who broke out of his early-season drought with 126 yards rushing yards and two scores in Week 3, had another big performance against one of the league's best defenses Week 4 against the Jets. He ran 19 times for 86 yards and a touchdown on a one-yard lunge in the fourth quarter. He also led the team with 46 yards receiving and tied for the team lead with four receptions.
Analysis: Thomas missed Week 1 with a sprained knee, but he was active for Week 2. Mike Bell, however, had taken over in the Saints backfield, rushing for 229 yards on 45 carries. But a sprained knee of his own has allowed Thomas to reclaim his place in the best offense in football, which makes him again a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Saints have a bye in Week 5 before hosting the Giants in Week 6.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas sealed the win in Week 3 against the Bills with two touchdown runs in the final 10 minutes of a 27-7 victory. Thomas finished with 126 yards rushing, while scoring on 34- and 19-yard runs for a Saints offense had scored 45 points in each of its first two games. Thomas, who's been limited while nursing a knee injury to start the season, put the game away a little over five minutes into the fourth quarter to put the Saints up 17-7. Taking the ball on a sweep left, Thomas burst up the sideline, where he vaulted rookie safety Jairus Byrd, and then dragged cornerback Terrence McGee the final 5 yards into the end zone. Thomas scored again on a 19-yard run with 2:03 left.
Analysis: We were a bit worried at the beginning of the game when Lynell Hamilton, who was replacing the injured Mike Bell (knee), scored the team's first rushing touchdown. But the Saints finally inserted Thomas into the game in the second half after he overcame the flu bug and he averaged 9.0 yards per carry. "I was feeling a little shaky and in my head I was thinking I wouldn't be able to play," Thomas said. "These guys here were keeping me alive, they were telling me to fight through it." We are pretty sure Thomas was once instilled faith in the coaching staff and should be the team's feature back heading into Week 4 against the Jets. New York has a pretty good run defense, but we still like Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: Saints QB Drew Brees (left shoulder), TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle) and RB Pierre Thomas (knee) are all active for Week 3 at Buffalo. All three players were probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Brees has been tearing up defenses all season and Buffalo has the second to worst pass defense in the NFL. You will want to make sure to start Brees and Shockey in Week 3. The Bills have allowed five passing touchdowns in two games, with four going to tight ends. As for Thomas, he is going to have to split carries with Reggie Bush and Lynell Hamilton. He is more of a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option.
News: New Orleans running back situation is in a state of flux going into Sunday's game against Buffalo as leading rusher Mike Bell won't play. Bell missed practice all week with a sprained MCL in his right knee. Coach Sean Payton didn't want to discuss the running back rotation after Friday's practice. The Saints could use a trio of running back against the Bills with Pierre Thomas, Reggie Bush and Lynell Hamilton all seeing possible action.
Analysis: Thomas (knee) is set to return to action after missing out on carries in Week 2. It's not sure how much work he will get since Bush and Hamilton are both 100 percent. Bush is probably the safest play out of all three backs, with Thomas being at best a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option and Hamilton a desperation start. It's a tough matchup for the Saints on the ground since Buffalo has a top 10 rush defense.
News: Saints leading rusher Mike Bell (sprained right knee) did not practice for a second-straight day Thursday as the team prepares for Week 3 at Buffalo. Head coach Sean Payton said he could potentially be replaced by Lynell Hamilton on Sunday. Pierre Thomas (knee), who practiced in full, is another option. "Hamilton had a good training camp and he made the roster," Payton said. "These guys that are on this roster, we all have to count on. If need be, he's a guy we feel confidence in."
Analysis: We'll keep tabs on both Thomas and Bell leading up to Sunday's game, but if Bell doesn't get any practice in, his Cinderella story-like ride to Fantasy prominence will likely come to a screeching halt -- and Thomas can pick up where he left off. One problem: The Bills' run defense ranks ninth in the league and has only given up one touchdown on the ground thus far, so the Saints might go pass-happy. Play it safe and consider whomever the Saints' primary rusher for Week 3 is to be a No. 3 Fantasy RB.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Wednesday that RB Pierre Thomas practiced in full Wednesday while RB Mike Bell did not practice at all, which could result in a complete reversal of their roles heading into Week 3 at Buffalo. Thomas sprained his MCL during the preseason and essentially hasn't played yet this season while Bell sprained his MCL last week against the Eagles. Payton wouldn't commit to giving Thomas a lot of work this week, limiting his comments about him only to what he did in practice.
Analysis: We'll keep tabs on both Thomas and Bell leading up to Sunday's game, but if Bell doesn't get any practice in, his Cinderella story-like ride to Fantasy prominence will likely come to a screeching halt -- and Thomas can pick up where he left off. One problem: The Bills' run defense ranks ninth in the league and has only given up one touchdown on the ground thus far, so the Saints might go pass-happy. Play it safe and consider whomever the Saints' primary rusher for Week 3 is to be a No. 3 Fantasy RB.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Saints RB Mike Bell, who went down with a sprained right knee in the fourth quarter Sunday at Philadelphia, suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament -- the same injury that kept teammate Pierre Thomas out for almost four weeks. Bell wore a wrap and a brace on his sprained right knee Monday morning. He said he'll have more of an idea of his status Tuesday. Bell underwent an MRI but didn't reveal the results. Thomas played sparingly in his first game back, lining up for one series on offense, catching a swing pass that was quickly snuffed out for a 4-yard loss. He also lined up as the up-back on kickoff returns as the team eased him back into action. Thomas said if Bell can't play next week at Buffalo, he feels ready to step back into a full-time role on offense. Coach Sean Payton simply said "we'll see Wednesday" when asked if Thomas would be healthy enough to take Bell's workload.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Bell and hope he is OK, but it appears like with Thomas back his role will be reduced. On the flip side, it sounds like Thomas could be in line to play as we expected before he got hurt. Continue to monitor what happens because the Saints should have an opportunity to run the ball with success against the Bills this week.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Saints RB Mike Bell, who went down with a sprained right knee in the fourth quarter Sunday at Philadelphia, suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament -- the same injury that kept teammate Pierre Thomas out for almost four weeks. But the Saints won't have a definitive diagnosis until Bell undergoes an MRI exam Monday. The diagnosis likely will not be revealed until Wednesday, at the earliest. "It's definitely not an ACL," said Bell, who ran for 86 yards on 17 carries, including a 7-yard touchdown in the third quarter. Thomas played sparingly in his first game back, lining up for one series on offense, catching a swing pass that was quickly snuffed out for a 4-yard loss. He also lined up as the up-back on kickoff returns as the team eased him back into action. Thomas said if Bell can't play next week at Buffalo, he feels ready to step back into a full-time role on offense. "Oh, no doubt. No doubt," Thomas said. "Whenever they call my name, I'm stepping up."
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Bell and hope he is OK, but it appears like with Thomas back his role will be reduced. On the flip side, it sounds like Thomas could be in line to play as we expected before he got hurt. Continue to monitor what happens because the Saints should have an opportunity to run the ball with success against the Bills this week.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) was activated for Week 2 at Philadelphia, but he did not play. Thomas watched as Mike Bell rushed 17 times for 86 yards and a touchdown and Reggie Bush rushed 10 times for 33 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Thomas may have been healthy enough to suit up, but the Saints held him back as Bell shouldered the load for a second straight week. Bell suffered a knee injury in the fourth quarter, however, and could not return and it was Bush who took over the rushing duties the rest of the way. Thomas appears to be closer to returning to the field, but Fantasy owners should let him prove healthy and productive again before activating him unless Bell's injury forces him out of Week 3 at Buffalo ahead of time and Thomas is expected to carry the bulk of the load against the Bills.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) was among the active players listed for Week 2 at Philadelphia. He was listed as questionable for the game and was a game-time decision.
Analysis: It has been reported that Thomas would be somewhat limited in the game. Fantasy owners who own either Thomas or Mike Bell should now be extra cautious about starting either player. Bell had a terrific game in the opener, but that was against a porous Lions defense and without having to share the load with Thomas. Thomas is a risky play any league because any slight setback could have him out for the game even if he is active. Avoid using Bell as anything more than a flex option in deeper leagues due to the uncertainty.
News: ESPN is reporting that Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) is likely to play in Week 2 at Philadelphia. He is listed as questionable on the injury report and considered a game-time decision.
Analysis: Fantasy owners who own either Thomas or Mike Bell should now be extra cautious about starting either player. Bell had a terrific game in the opener, but that was against a porous Lions defense and without having to share the load with Thomas. Thomas is a risky play any league because any slight setback could have him out for the game even if he is active. Avoid using Bell as anything more than a low-end flex option in deeper leagues due to the uncertainty.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 2 at Philadelphia. Thomas has taken limited practice reps the last two days after working in full Wednesday. If Thomas is unable to play, RB Mike Bell will likely share carries with Reggie Bush.
Analysis: There are rumors floating around that Thomas' injury is a lot worse than the Saints are leading on. Thomas sounded confident Thursday that he would be in the lineup Sunday, but it does look as though it will be a game-time call. Even if Thomas is healthy, he will face a stout Eagles defense and would like be a risky start. Bell, who rushed for 143 yards in Week 1, is probably the safer bet to play. He is at best a No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option. Bush might be used as a No. 2 Fantasy RB in larger formats, but the safer bet is also as a No. 3 option.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas (knee) practiced on a limited basis Thursday. Thomas, who missed Week 1, practiced in full Wednesday, but there are no assurances that Thomas will be active for Sunday's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas on Friday before making a decision for your lineup, but the safe option is to keep Thomas reserved this week. After missing Week 1, it's hard to imagine Thomas getting much work, and the Eagles held Carolina to 83 rushing yards in Week 1.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Wednesday that RB Pierre Thomas practiced in full on Wednesday and has a chance to play at Philadelphia in Week 2. He practiced with a large brace on his left knee as he works his way back from a sprained MCL; Payton joked that he looked like a fullback. "He looked good," Payton said. "Again, for him it's just getting back into the flow of things with the conditioning level and everything that goes with it. He's moving around and it was good to see him do that."
Analysis: Payton has also said that upon his return, Thomas will split carries with Mike Bell, who filled in admirably for Thomas last week. We'll wait and see on Thomas, but both he and Bell will take work away from each other against a solid Eagles run defense. Consider both guys no better than low-end No. 3 Fantasy RBs this week.
News: RB Pierre Thomas' return to the Saints lineup is still uncertain for Week 2 at Philadelphia after missing Week 1 against Detroit with a knee injury. When Thomas does return, coach Sean Payton said the spilt in snaps would occur more between Thomas and Mike Bell. Payton said there's a clear plan for Reggie Bush's snaps, though, as Bush is used in a more exotic fashion.
Analysis: We hope to see Thomas on the field soon, and he needs to prove his worth after Bell's performance against the Lions. Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas in Week 2 leading up to the game against the Eagles, but be prepared for him not to play or be limited with his knee.
News: As expected, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) was among the inactives for Week 1 against Detroit. Thomas did not take part in any team drills this week and has been out since the second preseason game with the injury.
Analysis: Thomas could return for Week 2 in Philadelphia, but it will all depend on how he fares in practice during the week. Keep tabs on his progress. When healthy, Thomas should be considered a viable No. 2 RB in most formats.
News: As expected, Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) was listed as out for Week 1 against Detroit. Thomas did not take part in any team drills this week and has been out since the second preseason game with the injury. With Thomas a no-go, coach Sean Payton said potentially it could mean a split load for Reggie Bush and Mike Bell. "We feel like Mike had a pretty good training camp and Reggie is healthy. You've got to have enough gas back there to where you're not just leaning on one player," Payton said.
Analysis: Keep Thomas reserved for Week 1 in all leagues, and hopefully he can return for Week 2 at Philadelphia. Bell is a great replacement option and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 1. Bush also remains an excellent start against the Lions and should be active in all formats.
News:The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints coach Sean Payton said RB Pierre Thomas did not participate in team drills on Thursday. The report added that Thomas is looking extremely doubtful at this point. Payton said the decision would be based on how effectively Thomas can cut on his injured knee.
Analysis: Thomas could be a game-time decision this weekend, but the Saints will probably be cautious and not give him much playing time if he does get in there. Mike Bell would be a great replacement for Thomas if you're looking for someone off the waiver wire, and Bell has played well during the preseason with Thomas hurt. Expect Thomas to sit Week 1.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) practiced with a brace on his right knee during the portion of practice the media was allowed to watch Thursday. He is listed on the injury report as questionable for Week 1 against Detroit after missing practice Wednesday.
Analysis: This is encouraging news for Thomas, but we still expect him to miss this week after being injured in the second preseason game and missing the final two preseason outings. Thomas could be a game-time decision, but the Saints will probably be cautious and not give him much playing time if he does get in there. Mike Bell would be a great replacement for Thomas if you're looking for someone off the waiver wire, and Bell has played well during the preseason with Thomas hurt.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (sprained right knee) sat out practice on Wednesday. He said he hopes to practice on Thursday and added he'd probably have to in order to be ready to play on Sunday against the Lions. Thomas said he also had to have stitches in the same leg after cutting himself on the edge of a fence while chasing his dog, which had gotten loose and gone into a neighbor's yard. He's considered questionable at best for the Saints' home opener, which means Mike Bell would be in line to potentially start and get Thomas' workload.
Analysis: Expect the Saints to rest Thomas for this game since it's against a beatable opponent. The team would love to give him an extra week of rest for later on in the year. Consider him bench material at this point while Mike Bell emerges as at least a No. 3 Fantasy RB. Know this: Bell's lone touchdown in 2008 came against these Lions. We might even see Lynell Hamilton get some touches to aid Bell. We'll continue to deliver the latest news on this as we get it.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton didn't put RB Pierre Thomas on the practice field Monday as he works his way back from a sprained MCL in his knee. Thomas also received stitches from a cut on his body when he walked into a fence. "We'll wait until Wednesday and then go ahead and give you the injury status on these guys," Payton said. "We're hoping that he's making the progress necessary so we can play him in this game, but we'll see."
Analysis: Thomas would be a must-start against the Lions, a team he destroyed last year, if he were healthy. Instead, we'll have to keep tabs on his recovery and deliver the latest news when we get it. There is a chance the Saints could play this game without him, which would mean Mike Bell would get the start in his place.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas did not play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Dolphins as expected due to a knee injury. He is considered questionable for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: Thomas' status for the first week of the season remains up in the air as he continues to deal with a knee injury. We still suggest drafting Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, but do so with caution. When healthy, even with the presence of Reggie Bush and the emergence of Mike Bell, Thomas still has plenty of potential in this offense. He's worth drafting at the end of Round 3 and beginning of Round 4.
News:Reggie Bush could miss his third straight preseason game on Thursday night when the Saints host Miami, while fellow running back Pierre Thomas is expected to sit out for the second time in as many games. Bush, who hasn't played since straining his right calf during joint practices with the Houston Texans during training camp, has only three carries for 5 yards during the entire preseason - all in the exhibition opener Aug. 14. Bush said Tuesday that he has felt healthy enough to play throughout camp, but did not feel the need to risk injury in exhibition games. He added that he would like to play against Miami, but did not believe it was vital to get him ready for the regular season opener against Detroit in the Louisiana Superdome on Sept. 13. "I would like to get some live snaps, just to get back into the flow of football," Bush said. "All in all, I'll be fine. Whether I get ... snaps or not, I'll be ready to go next week." Coach Sean Payton also hedged when asked about playing Bush against the Dolphins. "I don't know. I'm hopeful and yet I want to be smart about it," Payton said. "It's progressing well with the rehab and everything, and what's most important is the opening game, yet I'd like to get him some work if it's possible." Payton was more doubtful about Thomas, who sprained his right knee when the Saints played at Houston on Aug. 22. "I don't think we're going to be able to play Pierre in this game," Payton said. Bush and Thomas did not practice on Tuesday, the last full workout before the Saints play the Dolphins.
Analysis: We're more worried about Thomas than Payton is, especially if he could be out for Week 1. We still suggest drafting Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, but do so with caution. When healthy, even with the presence of Reggie Bush and the emergence of Mike Bell, Thomas still has plenty of potential in this offense. He's worth drafting at the end of Round 3 and beginning of Round 4 and hope that he will be 100 percent soon.
News: There's some concern that Saints RB Pierre Thomas (knee) may not be healthy enough to return for Week 1 against the Lions, but coach Sean Payton deemed it "very little concern." Thomas is questionable to play Thursday against Miami. Thomas missed the third preseason game against Oakland with a strained MCL.
Analysis: We're more worried about Thomas than Payton is, especially if he could be out for Week 1. We still suggest drafting Thomas as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, but do so with caution. When healthy, even with the presence of Reggie Bush and the emergence of Mike Bell, Thomas still has plenty of potential in this offense. He's worth drafting at the end of Round 3 and beginning of Round 4 and hope that he will be 100 percent soon.
News: As we heard from Saints head coach Sean Payton, RB Pierre Thomas did not play at Oakland in the team's third preseason game as he's resting a strained MCL in his right knee. Thomas dinged the knee in last week's game against the Texans and is expected to heal up in time for the start of the regular season. Mike Bell started in his place.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should take note of the setback, but we still view Thomas as a good value pick somewhere in the fourth round as a No. 2 RB going into the season. The added presence of Mike Bell along with the presence of Reggie Bush could cut into his carries compared to last season, but Thomas should remain productive thanks to his size, speed, good hands and the opportunity to be the goal-line back in a hyper-aggressive offense.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Pierre Thomas could miss the remainder of the preseason due to a lingering knee injury. Thomas suffered a sprained MCL in his right knee against Houston and has been ruled out of Saturday's preseason game against Oakland. The Saints open the regular season on Sept. 13 against Detroit.
Analysis: Saints coach Sean Payton says he is not really concerned about the injury, but rather the snaps he is missing in the preseason. Payton says Thomas should recover fully and that he doesn't think it will be an ongoing season problem for him. Fantasy owners should take note of the setback, but we still view Thomas as a good value pick somewhere in the fourth round as a second RB going into the season. The added presence of Mike Bell along with the presence of Reggie Bush could cut into his carries compared to last season, but Thomas remains a productive No. 2 Fantasy RB with good hands and the opportunity to be the goal-line back in a hyper-aggressive offense.
News: Following his 10-carry, 100-yard performance against the Texans in the second week of preseason, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints coach Sean Payton sees RB Mike Bell as not only a likely No. 3 runner, but someone who can contribute in his offense too. Bell might force a three-pronged running attack for the Saints and could be a small but bullying inside runner to complement Pierre Thomas.
Analysis: We'd be surprised to see Bell take significant carries away from Thomas and Reggie Bush on a weekly basis when both backs are healthy, but he should definitely make the team. But it's worth noting that after a 677-yard, eight-touchdown rookie campaign in Denver, Bell has played in nine games and amassed 45 yards and a touchdown. Thomas should make it out of training camp as the starting running back and be in line for up to 15 touches per week. If you're looking for a productive No. 2 Fantasy RB with good hands and the opportunity to be the goal-line back in a hyper-aggressive offense, look no further than Thomas. He's been going higher than Bush in standard seasonal drafts, which isn't a surprise. We like him with a pick in Round 3, though he's fallen to Round 4 in some drafts. Getting him there would be a steal.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas played well in Saturday's preseason game against Houston. With Reggie Bush (calf) out, Thomas had four carries for 20 yards and caught three passes for 27 yards and a 9-yard touchdown.
Analysis: In a recent phone interview with CBSSports.com, Thomas said he wanted to improve as a receiver out of the backfield. He also wanted more carries this season to be considered the No. 1 RB in New Orleans. "I have a big load this year," Thomas said. "I'm ready for that challenge. I can be a workhorse this year. I'm ready for a lot more carries." We like Thomas as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB, and he's worth drafting in Round 3 in all leagues. If Bush continues to be hurt, Thomas will only get more production and should do well this season.
News: The Louisiana Advocate reports Saints RB Pierre Thomas wants to be the starter in New Orleans even with Reggie Bush expected to handle the role. In 2008, with Bush injured, Thomas led the team with 625 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. To prepare for what he hopes is an expanded role this season, Thomas put on an extra 10 to 15 pounds this spring and will play about 225 pounds. He feels the extra weight will allow him to take a pounding, perhaps as a short-yardage back. While he knows that Bush is the starter, Thomas knows he can be the every-down back if needed. He's averaged a healthy 4.8 yards per carry on 181 career attempts. "I think I have the drive and the commitment to be (the starter)," Thomas said. "I know I can be the guy they need every down. I can carry the load. I just have to show the coaches at every practice that I can pick up my assignments and blocking and I can be their guy."
Analysis: Even though Bush might be the starter, Thomas will get plenty of carries. He's still worth drafting ahead of Bush because he'll get more scoring chances as the bigger back. We recommend taking Thomas as early as Round 3 in all leagues and hopefully Bush's presence won't hurt the potential Thomas has for a big season.
News: The first sign of the Wildcat formation popped up in Saints camp Friday. RB Pierre Thomas received the direct snap as QB Drew Brees lined up at receiver. "We're just trying something out there," Thomas said. "They wanted to see how my quarterback skills were. I was thinking about a throwback to Drew to test him on his route running." As for Thomas, he said he's weighing between 220 to 223 pounds, which is about 10 to 15 pounds heavier than last year, and looks ready for a heavier load this season.
Analysis: We like Thomas a lot this season, and if he's seeing snaps in the Wildcat formation, that's even better. Consider Thomas a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick beginning in Round 3 in all formats.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas knew he'd have a larger role in the offense this season, and he came to camp prepared. Thomas has bulked up during the offseason and the results have been on display thus far in training camp. He's running harder this summer and appears primed for more carries this season. Thomas is expected to be the "pure" running back while teammate Reggie Bush will be the more versatile option, though Bush will get some carries.
Analysis: We've been on the Thomas bandwagon all offseason and aren't letting up one bit. If you're looking for a productive No. 2 Fantasy RB with good hands and the opportunity to be the goal-line back in a hyper-aggressive offense, look no further than Thomas. He's been going higher than Bush in standard seasonal drafts, which isn't a surprise. We like him with a pick in the middle of Round 2, though he's fallen to Round 4 in some drafts. Getting him there would be a steal.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that the Saints' run game should mirror what we came to know in 2006, where Reggie Bush would catch a slew of passes and take a few carries off the plate of Pierre Thomas, who would play the 'Deuce McAllister' role and be the primary ball carrier. Not only did the paper's beat writer type that he "fully expects" Thomas to be the main rusher in the offense, but QB Drew Brees told WWL-AM in New Orleans recently that Thomas fits the bill. "I think that Pierre is our No. 1 back and can do that job. I feel like Reggie can be able to step in and do a great job ... but certainly I think Pierre Thomas is the total package," Brees said.
Analysis: We've been on the Thomas bandwagon all offseason and aren't letting up one bit. If you're looking for a productive No. 2 Fantasy RB with good hands and the opportunity to be the goal-line back in a hyper-aggressive offense, look no further than Thomas. He's been going higher than Bush in standard seasonal drafts, which should continue into the summer. We like him with a pick in the middle of Round 2, though he's fallen to Round 4 in some drafts.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints RB Pierre Thomas missed parts of two practices with a bruised left wrist, the same one he hurt at the end of last season. He did work in individual drills on the last day of practice but wore a protective sleeve on the wrist. He said that if he were preparing for a game right now, he'd be able to play, but since it's the offseason, he's taking some precautions. "The wrist is getting better," Thomas said. "It's a little sore right now. I didn't want to irritate it so I backed off, get some treatment, let it calm down and get back out there next week. ... I just got to have to get the swelling down. I believe as soon as I get that down I'm not going to have any problems."
Analysis: While this specific injury shouldn't bother Fantasy owners, it does seem like Thomas' left wrist has some vulnerability. Hopefully it's something that's not an issue this season because we think Thomas has the potential to be a phenomenal rusher in 2009. He is a candidate to be a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB and is worth a pick beginning in Round 3 in all leagues. The Saints have talked about adding another RB, possibly veteran Edgerrin James, but until that happens, Thomas should see at least 15 touches per week with goal-line work. Coach Sean Payton also said in the New Orleans Times-Picayune that Thomas is only about three or four pounds heavier than his playing weight of last season. He said he's gained strength more than bulk and appears to have maintained his agility and burst.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports Saints RB Pierre Thomas is bulking up to make sure he's the do-it-all back the team needs. Thomas, who emerged as the Saints' lead runner last season, said he has added more than 10 pounds of bulk, up to more than 220 pounds, in hopes of being the power back the Saints are looking for.
Analysis: We like Thomas in a shared role with Reggie Bush to have a breakout season. He is a candidate to be a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB and is worth a pick beginning in Round 3 in all leagues. The Saints have talked about adding another RB, possibly veteran Edgerrin James, but if Thomas can assume the goal-line work, he will be able to do it all.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas was on Sirius NFL Radio and addressed the rumors that the Saints aren't necessarily sold on him being their primary rusher in 2009. Thomas said he's trying to stay focused, adding that working hard, hustling and playing mistake free are keys to him staying in his role as the traditional running back in the New Orleans offense. He also added that he'd like to have 15 carries a game and mentioned that when he did have that many carries last year, the Saints usually won. "I really want to show them I can be that big back they want," Thomas said. "I'm not preparing myself enough until [critics] say the Saints have their running back. I have to keep trying. ... I have to make [coach Sean Payton] say 'Pierre's the guy.'"
Analysis: Thomas proved that the Saints cannot enter 2009 without him being a key part of their offense, even with Reggie Bush still on the roster. We expect Thomas to get anywhere from 12 to 18 touches per week with the potential to score against almost anyone. And get this -- he'll be a restricted free agent after the season, meaning that he'll be motivated to play well to land a big contract. Assuming Thomas is indeed promoted to the Saints' starting running back (Bush also will play but not nearly as much at the running back spot), he'll be in line to produce like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. Play it safe and call him a No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between the middle of Round 2 and the middle of Round 3 -- yes, that high -- with the expectation that he delivers like he did in 2008. Of course, if the Saints add another prominent rusher, Thomas' expectations would slip.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints RB Pierre Thomas is fine with any chatter out there that the Saints need a power running back to replace Deuce McAllister, even though he was very effective doing that in McAllister's place over the last few seasons. Many outlets report that the Saints are considering adding another physical rusher to work in the offense alongside Thomas and Reggie Bush. In his final six games of the 2008 season, Thomas had over 100 total yards in five games with at least one touchdown in each contest (nine total). His 2008 stats: 625 rush yards on 129 carries (4.8 avg.) with nine rush touchdowns and 284 yards on 31 catches (9.2 avg.) with another three scores through the air.
Analysis: Thomas proved that the Saints cannot enter 2009 without him being a key part of their offense, even with Reggie Bush still on the roster. We expect Thomas to get anywhere from 12 to 18 touches per week with the potential to score against almost anyone. And get this -- he'll be a restricted free agent after the season, meaning that he'll be motivated to play well to land a big contract. Assuming Thomas is indeed promoted to the Saints' starting running back (Bush also will play but not nearly as much at the running back spot), he'll be in line to produce like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. Play it safe and call him a No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between the middle of Round 2 and the middle of Round 3 -- yes, that high -- with the expectation that he delivers like he did in 2008. Of course, if the Saints add another prominent rusher, Thomas' expectations would slip.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas signed with the team as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2007. Exactly 23 running backs had been selected in the 2007 NFL Draft just two days before. But Thomas has been a leader of the rookies from that year. Thomas has 2,970 all-purpose yards in 27 career games, which ranks second among those 23 drafted players, trailing only 2007 NFL Rookie of the Year and 2008 All-Pro Adrian Peterson (Minnesota), who has racked up 3,922 all-purpose yards the past two seasons. But Thomas has made a name for himself, and has exceeded the expectations that an entire league envisioned for him, reports the Saints team web site. Out of the backfield, Thomas has rushed for the fourth-most yards among the class of 2007 with 877 yards on 129 carries (4.8 average). Only Peterson (3,101), Buffalo's Marshawn Lynch (2,151) and Baltimore's LeRon McClain (920) have run for more yards.
Analysis: Heading into 2009, Thomas has a chance to continue to add to his resume. He's expected to share carries with Reggie Bush, and Thomas should be a Fantasy star this season. Plan on drafting him as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, and he's worth a pick beginning in Round 4 in all leagues.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas (back, wrist) will is listed as inactive for Week 17 against Carolina. Deuce McAllister will get the start and the majority of carries in his place.
Analysis: Thomas had been a stud down the stretch. If you were counting on using Thomas in Week 17, bench him immediately. The Saints are probably going to pencil him in as a starter next season based on his play this season. Track his situation this offseason to see where he fits into drafts next summer. As it stands, he'll have some appeal as a regular No. 2 back.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas didn't practice all week as he's dealing with a sore back and looks as if he'll be a game-time decision for Week 17 vs. the Panthers. Thomas took no reps all week after getting banged up against the Lions a week ago. Deuce McAllister would take on the majority of the Saints reps if Thomas can't go. "I'll probably work (him) out on Sunday to see if (he has) a chance," Saints coach Sean Payton said on Friday, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
Analysis: This is potentially a huge blow to Fantasy owners as Thomas has been a stud down the stretch. If you were counting on using Thomas in Week 17, consider other options. Usually, when a player doesn't practice on Friday, he doesn't play on Sunday, and Thomas might qualify for that type of treatment. Also consider that he's young and the Saints are probably going to pencil him in as a starter next season based on his play this season. With the Saints expected to pass a bunch anyway, consider Thomas no better than a No. 2 option if he plays, but we're not expecting him to be in. McAllister could be a decent No. 3 Fantasy option if Thomas is out. We'll be the first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas didn't practice on Wednesday and was listed on the practice report with injuries to his back and wrist. No word has been given as to his status for Week 17; this is the first time he's been on the injury report with these ailments. Saints coach Sean Payton didn't comment on Thomas' injuries in a conference call with the Panthers media on Wednesday.
Analysis: We will keep an eye on Thomas' status throughout the week and deliver the latest news when we hear it. Hopefully, he just had a day of rest and won't miss or be limited in the club's season finale against the Saints on Sunday. Assuming he's active, we like Thomas as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy RB in Week 17.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas carried 13 times to lead the Saints in Week 16's 42-7 blowout over the Lions. Thomas totaled 77 yards and scored on a 2-yard run in the 3rd quarter. He had a long run of 29 yards in the game and also caught three passes for 26 yards.
Analysis: The Saints scored three rushing touchdowns in the first half and Thomas got none of them while still doing the bulk of the work. Still, he scored later in the game to make his Fantasy owners happy and he remains their No. 1 option as the Saints face Carolina in Week 17. Thomas was not the feature back the last time the Saints played the Panthers but should be good as a No. 2 Fantasy RB option for the game.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas has been red-hot over his last five games and should make it six when he plays at winless Detroit in Week 16, especially since he won't share carries with Reggie Bush (he was placed on IR with a knee injury). Over his last five, Thomas has totaled 398 rushing yards, 176 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, including at least one in each of his last five and one rushing and receiving in each of his last two games. The Lions will enter their game against the Saints ranked dead last in the NFL against the run with 26 rush TDs allowed on the season and five 100-yard rushers in their last five games. Thomas is CBSSports.com's Start of the Week for Week 16.
Analysis: Perhaps the most encouraging sign of all involving Thomas is that he's had at least 15 carries in four of his last five games -- proof that the Saints are running the ball more and trusting Thomas with their game plan. Expect Thomas to perform like a No. 1 Fantasy rusher when he takes on the lowly Lions in his next game -- not starting him will only hurt your chances of winning your league.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas continued to outshine backfield mate Reggie Bush in Week 15 at Chicago, rushing 22 times for 87 yards and catching seven passes for 59. He scored two touchdowns -- one on a 42-yard run and one on a two-yard reception. He has now scored two touchdowns in two straight games and at least one in each of his last five.
Analysis: By comparison, Bush had 46 total yards and sat out the second half with a sprained knee. Bush's knee continued problems -- he had surgery on it before Week 8 -- means Thomas might shoulder an even bigger load over the final two weeks. He has emerged as a must-start in Fantasy and has a terrific matchup Week 16 at Detroit. Make sure you get him active.
News: Chicago native Pierre Thomas goes into the Windy City on Thursday night to face the Bears. Thomas is the Saints' leading rusher with 461 yards, and he has nine touchdowns, including seven rushing. Last year at Chicago, Thomas was making his first NFL start because Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush and Aaron Stecker were all injured. Thomas ran for 105 yards and caught 12 passes for 121 yards and an 11-yard TD in a 33-25 loss. He became the first player in Saints' history to have 100 rushing yards and 100 receiving yards in the same game and his 226 total yards was the third-most in club history.
Analysis: Look for Thomas to stay hot. The Bears are No. 6 in run defense but they have allowed 13 rushing touchdowns. Thomas will share time with Reggie Bush, but he should still be considered a good No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option this week.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas ran for 100 yards for the first time all season, carrying the ball 16 times for 102 yards Week 14 against the Falcons. He also scored two touchdowns -- one on a five-yard run and one on a seven-yard catch. He had only the one reception in the game. "We wanted to make that a point, that we could run the ball on these guys," Thomas said. "(Coach Sean Payton) had faith in us to run the ball hard. We took it to 'em."
Analysis: Thomas had arguably his best game of the season even though Reggie Bush, recently back from a knee injury, had 10 carries for 80 yards and three catches for 26. Thomas doesn't figure to go away since Bush can't function as an every-down back anyway, so consider him a No. 3 Fantasy RB in Week 15 at Chicago. With a better matchup, he'd qualify as a No. 2.
News: In the Saints' 23-20 loss at the Buccaneers in Week 13, RB Pierre Thomas had 34 rushing yards on 11 carries and 20 yards receiving on a single catch that he took short and weaved his way into the end zone on. Thomas led all Saints running backs in touches and total yards, and that includes a returning Reggie Bush.
Analysis: Thomas' leading the way in touches is one of two significant reasons why Fantasy owners must add this player for the stretch run. The other reason is that Saints RB Deuce McAllister is going to hear from the NFL in the coming week about a possible suspension for his taking of a banned substance and might be suspended for the rest of the season. If that happens, then Thomas will see even more carries including goal-line work. Consider Thomas a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 14 vs. Atlanta, and if there's news involving McAllister's suspension, we'll make sure you know about it.
News: Even though RB Deuce McAllister got the start with Reggie Bush sidelined by a knee injury, Pierre Thomas again served as the Saints' primary tailback Week 12 against the Packers. He carried the ball 15 times for 87 yards, scoring touchdowns on runs of four and 31 yards. He also had three receptions for 34 yards.
Analysis: Thomas ran the ball 16 times for 88 yards last week and, if nothing else, has established himself as the secondary option to Bush when Bush returns, which he likely will Week 13 at Tampa Bay. If Bush can't return, Thomas' appeal has likely increased to the point that he can serve as a No. 2 Fantasy RB, but you're better off thinking of him as a No. 3. He probably shouldn't remain on waivers in any Fantasy league, regardless of Bush's status.
News: FOX Sports reports Sunday that Saints RB Reggie Bush will remain sidelined with a torn meniscus in his left knee when his team hosts the Packers in Week 12 on Monday night. This will mark the third game Bush has missed since suffering the injury in Week 8 at Carolina. But this also means that RB Pierre Thomas might continue to see extended work in Bush's absence.
Analysis: Thomas will not only see action working in tandem with and occasionally in place of Deuce McAllister, but he could eventually replace McAllister if the veteran serves a suspension for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy. Thomas should be added to Fantasy rosters as soon as possible as a flier, and he could be as strong as a No. 3 Fantasy RB for Week 12 against the Packers.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had 16 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown Sunday at Kansas City. He also had four catches for 56 yards. Thomas was the latest New Orleans RB to star with Reggie Bush (knee) out, but Bush is expected to return in Week 12.
Analysis: Thomas is capable of games like this when given the carries. Still, don't expect him to continue at this level once Bush comes back. If Bush is out against next week against Green Bay on Monday night, then consider adding Thomas in all leagues. Otherwise, ignore Thomas since he will play behind Bush and Deuce McAllister.
News: With starter Reggie Bush sidelined for a second straight game, Saints RB Pierre Thomas led the team with six carries for 26 yards Week 10 at Atlanta. He also caught five passes for 34 yards.
Analysis: The six carries were the most Thomas has had since Sept. 21, when he also happened to have his last touchdown. Bush might return next week, but even if he doesn't, Thomas still has to contend with Deuce McAllister and Aaron Stecker. Think of him as a low-end Fantasy option Week 11 at Kansas City.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas carried the ball three times for 28 yards Week 8 against the Chargers in England even though starter Reggie Bush missed the game while recovering from knee surgery. Deuce McAllister handled most of the carries in his absence.
Analysis: Thomas began the season as the team's goal-line back, but McAllister has supplanted him and more since recovering from a knee surgery of his own. Of course, Thomas might end up taking over for McAllister if McAllister ends up having to serve a suspension for violating the league's steroid policy before Bush is ready to return. Thomas might deserve a roster spot in Fantasy for that reason alone, but you can afford to wait and see how the situation develops since the Saints have a bye in Week 9. They visit the Falcons in Week 10.
News: With Saints RB Reggie Bush expected to miss three to four weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery to repair the torn medial meniscus cartilage in his left knee, Deuce McAllister, Aaron Stecker and Pierre Thomas will be asked to shoulder the load in the meantime. "We'll have to make some adjustments offensively, and some other guys are going to have to step up and play along with Deuce (McAllister), be it Aaron Stecker or Pierre Thomas," coach Sean Payton said. McAllister will become the Saints' primary rusher after playing a complementary role to Bush throughout this season. But Thomas and Stecker both likely will rotate into the mix as the Saints try to keep their versatile offense from becoming too predictable. "As you recall, we were without Reggie last year for the last four games of the season," Saints QB Drew Brees said Monday. "We felt like at that time it was Pierre and Stecker doing a great job. I think that Deuce is running the ball very well right now. Whoever we put back there I have a lot of faith in. Hopefully, we won't skip a beat."
Analysis: Add Stecker first in Fantasy leagues since he's the better receiver of the two, but Thomas will get carries also. Consider Stecker a No. 3 Fantasy option against the Chargers in Week 8 and Thomas a No. 4 Fantasy RB.
News: Even with starting RB Reggie Bush going down with a knee injury in the second quarter, Saints RB Pierre Thomas carried the ball just once for two yards Week 7 at Carolina. He now has a total of five carries over the last five games.
Analysis: Thomas used to split carries with Bush, but now Deuce McAllister has assumed that role. McAllister and Aaron Stecker might actually carry most of the load with Bush down for three weeks, so you shouldn't necessarily rush to the waiver wire to grab Thomas. Consider him a decent Fantasy sleeper right now, but don't use him Week 8 against the Chargers in London unless circumstances change.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas was used very sparingly again in Week 6's win over the Raiders as Deuce McAllister got the bulk of the carries and Reggie Bush the remainder. Thomas had three carries for 18 yards.
Analysis: It appears this is how it's going to be for now on with McAllister showing he is back at 100 percent. Don't plan on using Thomas in Week 7 against the Panthers unless McAllister suffers a setback.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas only had one carry for 1 yard Sunday against the 49ers. He was limited with Deuce McAllister having a breakout game. McAllister ran 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown in place of Thomas.
Analysis: It appears this is how it's going to be for now on with McAllister showing he is back at 100 percent. Don't plan on using Thomas in Week 5 against the Vikings unless McAllister suffers a setback.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas didn't get the touches that Reggie Bush did on Sunday against the Broncos. Thomas did, however, get into the end zone two times. He rushed six times for 15 yards and the two scores from five and 10 yards out, respectively. He also caught three passes for eight yards.
Analysis: Thomas' Fantasy value skyrockets if the Saints keep him as the goal-line guy. The Saints don't look to be using Deuce McAllister at all and that is good news for Thomas' Fantasy owners. There is always risk because he doesn't touch the ball a lot but when he does he seems to find pay dirt. He's not a terrible option in Week 4 against the 49ers because of his goal-line ability.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas could be the goal-line guy for the near future for New Orleans. On Sunday, against the Redskins, Thomas got the goal-line carries and got into the end zone. Thomas ran the ball six times for a total of eight yards and the score. He also caught two passes for 29 yards.
Analysis: Thomas' Fantasy value skyrockets if the Saints keep him as the goal-line guy. Deuce McAllister was active for the game and only touched the ball twice. It looks like the Saints will stick with Thomas and that makes him possibly worth a pick up in deeper Fantasy leagues. He's not a terrible option in Week 3 at Denver as he could certainly see another touchdown if the Saints get to the goal line.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas led his team with 52 yards on 10 carries in a Week 1 victory over the Buccaneers. Thomas also caught two passes for 11 yards.
Analysis: On Sunday, Thomas filled nicely in for Deuce McAllister, who is still coming back from knee surgery. McAllister was active, but did not see the field. Thomas will likely go back to being a third-string back once Deuce is back to 100 percent, but is still worth holding on to in deeper leagues simply because how injury-prone the RBs are in New Orleans and how potent the Saints offense is.
News: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas has been clamoring for more carries from coach Sean Payton. In Thursday's preseason opener against the Cardinals he got the chance to show what he's got. And he doesn't have that much, apparently. Thomas rushed nine times for nine yards and was stopped on the goal line several times.
Analysis: It looked like the Saints were testing Thomas on the goal line. He failed miserably. Thomas will get more chances to prove himself but this was a golden opportunity. Aaron Stecker performed admirably as did Reggie Bush and with Deuce Mcallister in the mix, Thomas won't get enough touches to be considered in Fantasy.
News: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Friday that while Pierre Thomas is good in a special teams role, there could be some circumstances in which Thomas gets too many carries to be asked to also cover kicks. "He's competing for a lot of touches and he's doing well," Payton said. "We have a lot of confidence in him as a runner and it's something he's demonstrated consistently now. So he's in the mix, and a guy that has proven you can hand him the ball more than 15 to 20 times a game. He can carry the load and he played well in Chicago the last game of the season, so he's going to get a serious look."
Analysis: By late last season, Reggie Bush joined Deuce McAllister on the sidelines with a leg injury, giving Thomas the chance he needed to prove himself while backing up Aaron Stecker until the Chicago game in Week 17, which Thomas started. McAllister is back on the practice field, still on track to return from double knee surgery last fall, while Bush says he's 100 percent. Stecker also is back. Don't expect Thomas to see enough carries to produce in Fantasy.
News: Saints RB Deuce McAllister has missed a practice, and coach Sean Payton says he is scheduled to have an MRI on his left knee. McAllister had surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in that knee last season. He tore the ACL in his right knee in 2006. Payton said it swelled up after Friday's practice and trainers had to drain fluid from it. McAllister sat out Saturday morning's practice. Payton said doctors don't know if anything is wrong with the ligament but because of last year's surgery they want to be sure. For now, Pierre Thomas and Aaron Stecker are expected to work in McAllister's place as the traditional running back in the Saints offense (Reggie Bush is more of a utility running back who lines up in different places). McAllister has worked hard this offseason to come back from his latest knee bang-up, even showing up to camp under his playing weight.
Analysis: Fantasy owners know that McAllister is an injury risk, and this is just more fuel for the fire. It's the main reason why he has slipped into the middle rounds of drafts. We hate to say it because McAllister is an upstanding person in the NFL, but he cannot be counted on as anything more than a quality reserve Fantasy rusher at this point because of his injury history. Don't rush out to draft him with anything more than a middle-round choice. Additionally, Stecker and Thomas could be in play soon as relevant Fantasy RBs, so add them to rank lists as late-round picks.
News: Undrafted rookie rusher Pierre Thomas nabbed a roster spot out of training camp with the Saints. Aside from a TD rush against Atlanta in Week 7, Thomas didn't participate much until Week 17 when he started at Chicago and had 105 rush yards on 20 carries with 121 receiving yards and a TD on 12 grabs. He totaled 252 rush yards on 52 carries (4.8 avg.) with the Week 7 score and 17 catches for 151 yards with the Week 17 TD.
Analysis: Thomas may have paved the way to be a reliable backup option for Deuce McAllister, which the Saints clearly need after watching 2007 go down the tubes without a power rusher. He's worth a final-round pick in deeper leagues, and maybe a bit sooner in dynasty/keeper formats.
News: Saints rookie RB Pierre Thomas took advantage of a favorable matchup in Week 17 at Chicago and had 105 rush yards on 20 carries and 121 receiving yards on 12 catches with a touchdown. Thomas entered the game with 177 total yards and competed against his hometown team.
Analysis: Thomas might have played himself into a backup role with the Saints in 2008 as he can clearly handle the workload that would be given to whomever aides Deuce McAllister. Expect Thomas to be a late-round flier in all leagues in 2008 -- and that's if he really is backing up McAllister, not taking his spot on the roster.
News: Saints RB Aaron Stecker (turf toe) is active for Week 17 at Chicago. NewOrleansSaints.com reports that Stecker is expected to split carries with Pierre Thomas in the game.
Analysis: Don't expect a big game from Stecker even though he's facing off against a lesser run defense in the Bears. Both he and Thomas are No. 3 Fantasy RBs, but we like Thomas a smidge better because he's healthy.
News: The Saints' RB situation got a little clearer on Friday when the team ruled out RB Reggie Bush for Week 17 at Chicago. However, Aaron Stecker (toe) was listed as questionable for the game and did not practice Friday to attend his father-in-law's funeral. The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that coach Sean Payton called Stecker a game-time decision. "I think he's smart enough," Payton said of Stecker's lack of reps this week in practice. "We'll have to look at the reps and how many (plays) he can go. A lot of them will plays he's comfortable with, plays that he knows that we'll highlight on the call sheet. Certainly you'll see a lot of Pierre Thomas and we'll go from there."
Analysis: Figure Stecker to land around 12 reps if he plays, making him a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. Pierre Thomas appears to be the better play as he'll be going up against his hometown team, and he'll be facing them during a year where they've been awful against the run. Thomas is a decent bet as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News: The Saints' RB situation got a little clearer on Friday when the team ruled out RB Reggie Bush for Week 17 at Chicago. However, Aaron Stecker (toe) was listed as questionable for the game and did not practice Friday to attend his father-in-law's funeral. The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that coach Sean Payton called Stecker a game-time decision. "I think he's smart enough," Payton said of Stecker's lack of reps this week in practice. "We'll have to look at the reps and how many (plays) he can go. A lot of them will plays he's comfortable with, plays that he knows that we'll highlight on the call sheet. Certainly you'll see a lot of Pierre Thomas and we'll go from there."
Analysis: Figure Stecker to land around 12 reps if he plays, making him a No. 3 Fantasy RB at best. Pierre Thomas appears to be the better play as he'll be going up against his hometown team, and he'll be facing them during a year where they've been awful against the run. Thomas is a decent bet as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy RB.
News:Pierre Thomas, who watched the Bears nearly every fall on Sundays while growing up near Chicago, never made it to a game at Soldier Field. This Sunday, he'll see his hometown Bears play in person, and he won't need a ticket - at least not for himself. He may end up starting at RB for the Saints, with Reggie Bush (knee) and Aaron Stecker (toe) both sitting out practices with injuries this week. With Bush missing the past three games with a partially torn knee ligament, Thomas has backed up Stecker, who sprained his toe last Sunday in a loss to Philadelphia. For the season, Thomas has 30 carries for 146 yards, an average of 4.9 yards per carry.
Analysis: If in fact Thomas starts and gets the majority of carries, then consider Thomas a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB. The Bears run defense is among the worst in the league, and Thomas will have a chance to shine in front of his hometown fans.
News: Saints RBs Reggie Bush (knee) and Aaron Stecker (turf toe) both missed practice Wednesday in preparation for Week 17 at Chicago. They're both considered questionable for the game. Coach Sean Payton didn't rule either running back out, but how serious are their injuries? New Orleans signed RBs Artose Pinner and Chris Barclay on Wednesday.
Analysis: If Bush and Stecker are both out, rookie Pierre Thomas would be in line to take on the bulk of the work against a weak Chicago run defense. But if either Bush or Stecker are active, they'd be in line to see the most action. If they're both active, then Stecker is expected to work as a running back with Bush in his primary role as a running back/slot receiver. We'll keep you posted on the news leading up to the game, but expect the Saints' RB situation to sort itself out on Sunday an hour before kickoff.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas finished with 17 rush yards on three carries and 29 yards through the air on four catches vs. Philadelphia in Week 16.
Analysis: Thomas has an outside shot at seeing more playing time thanks to starter Aaron Stecker getting nicked up as well as the Saints likely playing for nothing in their season finale at Chicago in Week 17. Thomas would be nothing better than a desperation low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB in the Saints' finale.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas ran twice for 20 yards and caught one, two-yard pass in New Orleans' 31-24 win over the Cardinals in Week 15.
Analysis: Thomas is the clear No. 2 RB behind Aaron Stecker in New Orleans and should be left alone in Fantasy play for now. The Saints host the Eagles in Week 16.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas played a clear backup role to Aaron Stecker in Week 14 at Atlanta, running the ball only six times for 31 yards. He also returned a kick for 19 yards.
Analysis: Stecker, meanwhile, ran for 100 yards on 20 carries. With Reggie Bush reportedly out for the season, Fantasy owners should make a move for Stecker on waivers more so than Thomas. Though the two will supposedly split carries, the rookie got the short end of the stick this time around, and we suspect he often will as the season closes. The Saints host the Cardinals in Week 15.
News: Saints running back Reggie Bush will not play Monday night in Atlanta because of a knee injury. He had been listed as questionable for Week 14 after an MRI this week indicated a partially torn left knee ligament. The team Saturday did not comment about Bush's prospects for the rest of the season. With Bush out, Jamaal Branch, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas will be the running back. Thomas returned to practice Friday following a kidney bruise.
Analysis: Stecker has the most experience out of the three running backs and it is expected that the Saints will likely lean on him the most against the Falcons. He has carried the ball 59 times for 200 yards and one touchdown this season. Thomas, a rookie out of Illinois, is the second most experienced back with 19 carries for 78 yards and a touchdown. Branch has dressed for just one game this season and has zero carries. Consider Stecker a No. 3 Fantasy RB or 'flex' option for Week 14, while Branch and Thomas are merely desperation options at this juncture.
News: ESPN is reporting that Saints RB Reggie Bush has been diagnosed with a torn PCL in his knee and that he might miss the rest of the season. The team has confirmed the diagnosis but also said they are seeking a second opinion from Dr. James Andrews to determine if surgery is needed. Bush told a source that he doesn't expect to play in Week 14, and possibly for the rest of the season. If Bush were to miss Week 14, Aaron Stecker and rookie Pierre Thomas would get the nod and split reps against an iffy Falcons defense.
Analysis: It's a good idea to check out Stecker and/or Thomas in your league and grab them off your waiver wire, and that's if you own Reggie Bush or not. Stecker is an excellent receiver out of the backfield with good speed and versatility while Thomas is a power runner who did well during the preseason. The Saints might use this duo the same way they used Bush and Deuce McAllister before they both got hurt. As soon as we learn more about Bush's injury, we'll bring it to you.
News: Saints WR Robert Meachem, LB Matt McCoy, RB Pierre Thomas, DB Fred Thomas, DL McKinley Boykin and DL Josh Cooper have all been listed as inactive for Week 13 vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves or play on special teams for the Saints. They have little to no Fantasy value when active. Keep them reserved in Fantasy leagues Week 13.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas got 12 carries and 32 yards in Week 12 at Carolina.
Analysis: Thomas was just one off the team-high for carries in Week 12 with Reggie Bush being a little banged up and the Saints taking a big lead in the third quarter. Don't expect Thomas to get this many touches in Week 13 vs. Tampa Bay.
News: The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Saints RB Reggie Bush sat out practice Friday with his bruised left shin and is a game-time decision for Week 12 at Carolina, according to coach Sean Payton. If Bush doesn't play, his reps will be split between Pierre Thomas and Aaron Stecker (with Stecker the better play in reception-based leagues).
Analysis: What might happen is that Thomas works on most "rushing downs" while Stecker fills in on "passing downs." Against the Panthers' 20th-ranked run defense, they're both no better than low-end No. 3 RBs if they play, with Stecker the slightly more appealing option because of his solid receiving skills. We'll have the word on these players an hour before kickoff on Sunday.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas had a six-yard rush at Houston in Week 11. It was his only offensive stat of the game.
Analysis: Thomas is not a reliable stat producer and shouldn't be considered a good Fantasy option in the Saints' Week 12 game at Carolina.
News: Saints RB Reggie Bush took limited practice reps for the second straight session Friday and the team has opted to list him as questionable for Week 10 vs. St. Louis. Bush did not practice Wednesday because of a sore left knee, but felt better on Thursday. He bruised the knee late in the Saints' 41-24 victory over Jacksonville Week 9 and said on Wednesday that he expected to face the Rams. "I just banged it up a little bit last game. That's really it. There's nothing broken, nothing torn or anything like that," Bush said Wednesday. "Just a normal everyday football injury that you go through. (Sitting out of practice) was precautionary to get ready for the game this weekend."
Analysis: If Bush is unable to play, that means Aaron Stecker and Pierre Thomas could split time in the backfield. The Rams have a poor run defense and either player can be used as a last-second 'flex' option in the event Bush cannot play Sunday. Continue to follow the situation up until Sunday's inactives.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas gained nine rushing yards on three carries in New Orleans' 31-10 win over the 49ers in Week 8.
Analysis: Thomas is the third-string RB in the Big Easy, so consider him just that when thinking about using him in Fantasy play. It's not worth it. The Saints host the Jaguars in Week 10.
News: Saints rookie RB Pierre Thomas scored on his second ever NFL carry Week 7 against the Falcons, rushing into the end zone from 24 yards out in the third quarter. He finished with two carries for 28 yards and returned three kicks for 78 yards.
Analysis: Pierre won't get many touches with Reggie Bush and Aaron Stecker ahead of him, but he showed he has a nice burst when he does. Keep the rookie on the waiver wire for Week 8 at San Francisco.
News: Pierre Thomas did not record any offensive statistics in Week 6 at Seattle, but he did record a five-yard fumble return for touchdown on a blown punt by Ryan Plackemeier and the Seahawks.
Analysis: If you had Thomas active for any reason, that touchdown is credited to the Saints DST and not Thomas, so you ended up with as many points than if you started yourself. Thomas has no Fantasy value heading into Week 7 against the Falcons.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, promoted to third on the depth chart with the loss of Deuce McAllister, ran the ball once for three yards Week 5 against the Panthers. He also returned four kickoffs for a total of 100 yards.
Analysis: Pierre won't get many touches with Reggie Bush and Aaron Stecker ahead of him. Keep the rookie on the waiver wire for Week 6 at the Seahawks.
News: With Deuce McAllister out for the year, the Saints will lean on Aaron Stecker and Pierre Thomas to replace him at running back when Reggie Bush is winded or lined up elsewhere on the field. The Panthers rank 21st in the NFL against the run this year but have given up just three rushing touchdowns through four games.
Analysis: Stecker is a versatile threat with very good hands who could see as many as 10 touches in the game, while Thomas, a rookie, is more of a physical, inside type. Neither RB should start for Fantasy owners, but both are decent fliers to spend a roster spot or two on in standard Fantasy play. If they're unimpressive this week, just cut them next week.
News: The Saints list of inactives for Week 3 against the Titans includes QB Tyler Palko, RB Pierre Thomas, DB Fred Thomas, DL Kendrick Clancy and TE Ronnie Ghent.
Analysis: These players are all either reserves or minor defensive contributers. Keep them on the waiver wire in all Fantasy formats.
News: Saints RB Pierre Thomas, DB Fred Thomas, DL Renaldo Wynn, TE Ronnie Ghent and QB Tyler Palko (3rd QB) are all inactive for Week 2 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: None of these players are major Fantasy contributors when active. Keep them reserved in all Fantasy formats for Week 2.
News: Thomas, the rookie out of Illinois, was not on the injury report for Week 1 at Indianapolis, but he is inactive.
Analysis: Thomas had an impressive training camp and preseason, which was part of the reason the Saints parted with Antonio Pittman. However, he is not worth any Fantasy consideration heading into Week 2.
News: Rookie Pierre Thomas might have played himself into an NFL roster spot, even if it isn't with the New Orleans Saints. The former Illinois running back rushed 16 times for 81 yards and a touchdown, had two catches for 47 yards and added a decent kickoff return to help the Saints beat the Miami Dolphins 7-0 in a preseason finale involving few starters.
Analysis: The problem for Thomas is that he put himself in a difficult situation when he signed with New Orleans as an undrafted free agent. The Saints roster already includes star running backs Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister, along with veteran Aaron Stecker and rookie fourth-round draft pick Antonio Pittman out of Ohio State. So even if Thomas does latch on with New Orleans, he stands little chance of being active from week to week unless he makes himself indispensable on special teams. Ignore Thomas in all Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: Thomas, a rookie free agent out of Illinois who came into Thursday's preseason game at Kansas City deep on the depth chart, scored two fourth-quarter touchdowns for the Saints on runs of six and 19 yards against the Chiefs' reserves and could have made a good case for himself to win a job. "He made a real good impression on us, not just in (Thursday's) game but throughout the course of this camp," coach Sean Payton said. "He played well and he played hard."
Analysis: With Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush, Aaron Stecker, among others in front of him on the depth chart, even if he wins a roster spot, he is not worth any Fantasy consideration heading into the 2007 season.
