5 NFL stars who could be on the Madden 22 cover

2. Potential Madden 22 cover stars: Michael Thomas, WR, Saints

It was surprising to learn that the same number of wide receivers (5) had made the cover as running backs, but not surprising when one considers the continued devaluation of the running back position.

So, if we operate knowing that it is likely that another receiver is coming sometime soon – Michael Thomas is the guy most likely to be selected. He has dominated the NFL since he began his career in 2016. He has amassed four straight 1000 yard seasons, improving his output in each of his first four seasons. He plays on one of the best teams in the NFL, for one of its’ most prolific offenses to boot. Last year, he lead the league with an astonishing 149 receptions, which is the new NFL record for a single season. He was the AP Offensive Player of the Year for his record-setting performance; he is only the second wideout to ever win the award (the other is Hall of Famer Jerry Rice).

Presuming a healthy Drew Brees makes, and with the addition of Emmanuel Sanders to the lineup, Thomas will be set up to have an even greater year in 2020. He could push for 2000 yards as defenses are forced to shift some focus to the Saints’ new No. 2 receiver.

Antonio Brown was the last wideout to make the Madden cover in 2019. Odell Beckham, Jr, Calvin Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald were the other pass catchers on the cover over the last decade – none were as productive over a four-season stretch as Thomas has been since joining the league. It would make perfect sense for Madden to capitalize on Thomas’ growing profile and inevitable superstardom by making him the cover athlete after his fifth season, and his fourth straight with over 100 catches.