The Facts: A source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that the Saints and receiver Michael Thomas are “close” to getting a deal done that would end his unexpected holdout.

Diehards Line:According to PFT’s Mike Florio, the characterization comes at a time when chatter has emerged that the Saints could trade Thomas in lieu of signing him; the source dismissed that possibility. Of course, “close” doesn’t mean done. One or both sides will need to move in order to close the gap and do the deal. ... Stay tuned.