A Silent Hero: Zach Thomas

In the fifth round of the 1996 draft, the Miami Dolphins selected an undersized linebacker from Texas Tech. Fourteen years later, Zach Thomas retired as one of the biggest icons in Dolphins history. Although he stood smaller than most, his heart was bigger than the majority of the National Football league.

While attending Texas Tech, Thomas received many awards and honors as he recorded 390 tackles, including 131 as a senior. During that senior season, he made a school record 20 tackles in a single game against Missouri. All the while, remaining humble and giving praise to all those around him. To those that made it possible for him to become the player he was. His heart, humility and work ethic paid off as he became a member of the National Football League and a Miami Dolphin.

In his rookie season in Miami, Zach was a Pro Bowl alternate as well as an All-Rookie selection. The success continued on with him for the next 12 years in Miami. The first in the locker room, the last to leave, Thomas was a student of the game. He was a football junkie, and that gave him an edge. Now, Zach Thomas made the decision to sign a one day contract worth just $1 to retire with Miami. It was a very emotional day as stories were told by head coach Tony Sparano and Zach Thomas, reviewing over Zach's career.

CONTINUE...

Brandon Williams is a Jabberhead and a contributing author at Sports Jabber.

Join in the discussion on this and other topics in the NEW Sports Jabber Forums!