Aug 15th 2008 11:49AM by Tom Mantzouranis (author feed)
Filed under: Saints, NFC SouthI say this not because the Saints, or Hollis Thomas, have indicated it. I say this not because I hope it’s the case. I say it only because I believe it to be true — the torn triceps that will sideline Thomas for two months will ultimately cost him his career.

The injury, which was “scooped” by a poster at Saints Report (take that, MSM!), is expected to keep Thomas out for the first six games of the season. And that’s counting on a perfect recovery. But even if Thomas winds up recovering on schedule, he’s going to eat a roster spot that the team may not afford to lose. If the team decides they need the spot, they’ll probably put Thomas on the IR and end his season. At 34 years old and 335 lbs., with snaps declining annually, this could eventually serve as Thomas’ going-away campaign.

Thomas was expected to back up Sedrick Ellis at nose tackle, but his role in the team’s line rotation was still important. Add in the fact that he’s had a great camp — meeting his weight requirements for the first time in three years as a Saint, looking more mobile — and the injury will hurt the Saints. Thomas has been a solid contributor and is well-liked in the locker room for his jovial nature (yes, he is wearing a Spongebob get-up in that picture; no, I have no idea why).

The onus now falls on Ellis and Kendrick Clancy to fill the void, for this season and perhaps beyond.