Wide receiver Mike Thomas has been making a strong impression early on in training camp. And no, we’re not talking about the Saints All-Pro. We’re referring to the other fourth-year wideout who plays for the Rams.

“He really has,” said Sean McVay on the re-emergence of Thomas. “You see, he’s made some plays over the last couple days. He’s got great explosiveness, he’s catching the ball really well. He’s obviously been a great contributor for ‘Bones’ (special teams coordinator John Fassel), had his opportunities when he’s been healthy. He’s got great speed down the field, he’s a physical football player and he’s really been a guy – I’m sure you ask because you’ve seen it – he’s done a really nice job and we’ve been really pleased with Mike over the last couple days.”

McVay is right; there’s no way we’d be writing an article about Thomas if we didn’t see it. He’s struggled to see the field much at all during his time with the Rams due to injuries, suspensions, and simply being buried in the depth chart behind better players. Given this, it’s clear that the Rams must think highly of him to have kept him around for this long. He’s one of just 15 Rams left from the pre-McVay era.

Thomas has notably developed a strong connection with backup quarterback Blake Bortles over the last week of camp. The duo has been lighting it up together with the second-unit. Thomas even got some first-team reps during the team’s first co-practice with the Chargers, filling in for Brandin Cooks after he experienced some hamstring tightness.

It’s an uphill battle for Thomas to make much of an impact on the depth chart. He’s firmly behind Cooks, Robert Woods, Cooper Kupp, and even Josh Reynolds in the receiver hierarchy. Still, the fact that the team has gone out of their way to praise him means he’s a good bet to be on the opening day roster. Expect to see plenty of Thomas when the Rams begin preseason play this Saturday in Oakland.