Game-Day Ready: Michael Thomas' Involvement in Incident Unlikely to Affect Availability Against Vikings

Michael Thomas

Saints receiver Michael Thomas has found himself embroiled in controversy following an incident that reportedly transpired on Friday evening in close proximity to his Kenner residence. While the details are still emerging, sources indicate that Thomas was allegedly taken into custody by the Kenner Police Department, with the primary catalyst appearing to be an altercation involving the slapping of a cell phone out of someone's hand.

The incident gained attention when witnesses observed Thomas being escorted by the police in Kenner after a concerned call was made to the local NBC affiliate, WDSU, reporting an increased police presence in Thomas's residential subdivision.

In response to inquiries, a spokesman for the Saints team acknowledged the situation, stating on Friday night, "We are aware of the incident and are actively gathering information."

According to accounts from neighbors who spoke to WDSU, the events leading up to the altercation unfolded when Thomas, angered by contractors repeatedly parking near his residence, called the police. Allegedly, there had been weeks of tension, including threats from Thomas, one of which involved a menacing promise of a brick or bullet being introduced to the contractors' vehicle if it was not relocated. The purported victim claimed that Thomas escalated the situation by throwing a brick at his car and subsequently hurling his phone when he began recording the confrontation.

As of 1:00 a.m. on Saturday, the Kenner Police Department had not officially documented the incident and was unable to confirm Thomas's arrest. It's worth noting that this is not the first time a Saints player has encountered legal issues in Kenner, as Chris Olave was previously arrested for speeding, with video footage from the arresting officer's body camera uploaded to the department's YouTube page.

Despite the unfolding controversy, a league source has indicated that Thomas is expected to be available for the upcoming Sunday game against the Vikings, as the team is scheduled to depart on Saturday for Minneapolis. The situation continues to evolve, and further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.