Written by Barry Wilner
Special Contributor to the Pro Football Hall of Fame
In 1996, the initial plan was for fifth-round draft pick ZACH THOMAS to be a special-teams player for the Miami Dolphins. However, Thomas had other plans and completely changed the game.
Even before playing his first meaningful game, Thomas became the starting middle linebacker for the Dolphins, displacing the veteran Jack Del Rio, who was also an exceptional player. And he didn’t neglect his duties on kick teams either.
Undoubtedly, Zach Thomas was an extraordinary player, and today he has earned the ultimate honor of receiving a Gold Jacket.
“I am immensely proud to be a part of the esteemed Class of 2023,” said Thomas during his speech, where he shared that he was hit by a pickup truck at the age of 2. “What an incredible group of men! As a Texas country boy who traveled some dirt roads, I greatly admired many of you. It is an incredible privilege to stand here as the 370th inductee into the Hall of Fame.”
“On August 5, 1996, exactly 37 years ago today, Jimmy Johnson appointed me as the starting middle linebacker for the Miami Dolphins, despite being the 154th draft pick. Jimmy believed in me, and I can never repay you, Coach,” Thomas expressed his gratitude.
Throughout his twelve outstanding seasons in Miami and one more with Dallas, Thomas ranked among the top linebackers in a period marked by brilliance at the position. After finishing second to Simeon Rice for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, Thomas used that as motivation to earn seven All-Pro selections and make six Pro Bowl appearances. With his exceptional ability to disrupt both the running and passing game, Thomas consistently recorded at least 94 tackles per season, leading the NFL in tackles twice.
“He made every play. He made every tackle,” remarked Johnson about Thomas.
During his rookie season, Thomas achieved 154 tackles, three interceptions, a touchdown, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. And he continued to excel from there.
Recalling his first training camp, Thomas reminisced, “Just being out there and looking across – that’s Dan Marino right there, competing against me. I’m going up against Dan Marino.” His focus was solely on making the team, and nothing else mattered.
From 1997 to 2001, Miami made multiple appearances in the postseason, and in a 2001 playoff game against Baltimore, Thomas recorded an impressive 22 tackles, 14 of which were solo.
Overall, Thomas had 17 interceptions, a remarkable feat for a linebacker, with four of them returned for touchdowns, which remains a team record. Additionally, he achieved 20.5 sacks. Along with his leadership and versatility, Thomas was selected for the NFL All-Decade Team of the 2000s and embodied all the qualities of a Hall of Famer.
“To all the passionate Miami Dolfans who appreciated my game, cheered for me, and sought my autograph, you mean the world to me,” Thomas exclaimed to the crowd at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, triumphantly pumping his right arm. “When I observed you in the stands sporting my number 54, I knew I couldn’t disappoint you.”
Mike Westhoff, the Dolphins’ special teams coordinator, played a significant role in drafting Thomas from Texas Tech. Despite skepticism about Thomas’ size, Westhoff saw his potential as an asset on special teams. Jimmy Johnson recognized Thomas’ capabilities and allowed him to shine while still fulfilling his special teams duties.
“Zach is one of the most selfless and dedicated players I have ever encountered throughout my three decades in the NFL,” praised Westhoff of the only Texas Tech player in the Hall of Fame.
Thomas, who retired in 2008 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in his tenth year of eligibility, added, “Some of you may have noticed that there is one person whose name I have yet to mention. His poster adorned my college dorm room, and day and night, I dreamed of becoming like him because he embodied everything I aspired to be as a football player. He was my inspiration, he became my teammate, and although he is not physically present, he is here in spirit – and in a bust within this building. I am truly honored to join him.”
“Thank you, buddy, Junior Seau,” Thomas acknowledged.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
