Still millions away from an agreement with Jimmy Graham, the New Orleans Saints are diving into the couch cushions for loose change.
Pierre Thomas is one established player who could be affected by Graham's contract talks.
Thomas' agent told The Times-Picayune on Tuesday that the Saints have reached out to discuss the running back's future with the club.
The agent would not reveal the specifics of that phone call.
Although multiple local writers have pointed out that trimming Thomas' $2.9 million salary would leave no dead money against the cap, the bet here is that the Saints floated the idea of an extension that would be team-friendly for the 2014 season.
An integral chess piece in coach Sean Payton's offense, Thomas led the Saints in rushing yards last season. More impressively, he also topped all NFL running backs with 77 receptions.
Even with Mark Ingram and Khiry Robinson providing quality depth, it would be a surprise if Thomas was flat-out dumped this offseason.
On the latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast," the guys talk about the Jim Harbaugh drama in San Francisco and discuss who made the most striking impression at the NFL Scouting Combine.