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San Francisco 49ers defensive back Michael Thomas received a modest bump in his practice squad salary, according to Brian McIntyre. His salary has reportedly increased from the minimum $6,000 per week to $8,824 per week.
This increase in salary is likely due to other teams expressing interest in Thomas. While Thomas is a part of the 49ers, as a member of the practice squad he is allowed to sign with any team that comes calling. If he signs with another team, he gets three weeks salary of his NFL Player Contract at the league minimum, even if he is released from the team before three weeks are up.
Thomas would be able to make a nice chunk of change if he signed to another team's 53-man roster. The league minimum for the 53-man roster is $405,000. The salary would be pro-rated over the course of the regular season, as opposed to 53 weeks, so there is some solid money to be made there.
However, as a member of the 49ers, I have to imagine there are some benefits in terms of potentially earning a long-term job. If the 49ers decide to part ways with Carlos Rogers after the season ends, Thomas would likely get a long look as the slot corner. He would potentially be competing against guys like Eric Wright and Perrish Cox, but there is an opportunity there.
This will be something to keep an eye on as the season wears on. Thomas got the boost in pay, but teams are likely still going to keep knocking.