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Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas (54) celebrates after recovering a fumble against the New york Jets in a photo taken December 18, 2005. (REUTERS/Marc Serota) |
MIAMI (Reuters) - The Miami Dolphins took another step in their rebuilding process on Thursday by releasing seven-times Pro Bowl linebacker Zach Thomas, the NFL club said.
Thomas, 34, missed most of last season for the 1-15 Dolphins because of concussions and migraines.
Earlier this week, Miami cut quarterback Trent Green, wide receiver Marty Booker, right tackle L.J. Shelton, defensive tackle Keith Traylor and five other players.
Miami has been in a rebuilding mode since hiring former Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Parcells as executive vice president of football operations in December.
"Zach Thomas has been a great player on this team for many years, and because of the type of player and the kind of person that Zach is, this was not an easy decision," Dolphins General Manager Jeff Ireland said in a statement.
Thomas, who played 12 seasons with the Dolphins, said he hopes to continue with another NFL team.
"I want to thank the entire organization...for making my 12 seasons with the Dolphins as memorable as they were," Thomas said.
"I am healthy and look forward to playing in 2008, but will always consider myself a Miami Dolphin."
Thomas, a fifth-round draft choice by Miami out of Texas Tech in 1996, was named to seven Pro Bowls in his 12 seasons, the most-ever by a Dolphins defensive player.
He led the team in tackles in 10 of his 12 seasons and made 17 interceptions, four of which he returned for touchdowns.
(Writing by Larry Fine in New York, editing by Ed Osmond)
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