End of an Era in Miami: Dolphins Cut Zach Thomas Loose

The Miami Dolphins released Zach Thomas  last week, ending his 12 year run with the only franchise he has ever known.  The new Miami regime made the decision, no doubt based on Thomas’ recent concussion issues.  He has not been the same spark plug middle linebacker Miami fans knew and grew to admire since 2006, and unfortunately, it was time.  Thomas, an under-sized, yet over-achieving middle linebacker, was drafted in the fifth round in the 1996 NFL Draft, the 154th overall selection, out of Texas Tech .  He immediately became a fan favorite as it seemed he was in on every tackle the Miami Defense recorded.  His stopping the run, dropping back in pass coverage, and taking the occasional ball to the house, have Dolphin fans collectively reminiscing today. With a year remaining on his contract, Thomas will look for employment with a contender, should there be a roster spot for him.  As a lifelong Dolphin fan, I can only pray that contender ... (link)