Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando
The Dolphins recently released a statement confirming Zach Thomas' release from the team. The statement included the following comment from Thomas:
"I want to thank the entire organization, especially Mr. Huizenga, for making my 12 seasons with the Dolphins as memorable as they were. I also want to thank all the coaches and teammates that I've had during my career for helping me to grow both on and off the field. I have a tremendous appreciation and admiration not only for the Dolphins organization, but for the fans as well, for all of the support that they have given me. I can't thank Bill Parcells, Jeff Ireland and the rest of Dolphins management enough for handling this situation in a first-class manner. I am healthy and look forward to playing in 2008, but will always consider myself a Miami Dolphin."
The statement also included a comment from the team's new general manager, Jeff Ireland:
"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. In addition to his numerous accomplishments on the field, he was a leader off of it as well. We want to thank Zach for everything he has done for the Dolphins organization and the South Florida community. We all wish him the best of luck in the future."
Thomas endured quite a bit of losing later in his career with the Dolphins. A fresh start might be a good thing for him. The Dolphins are rebuilding. Thomas now has a chance to find a better situation. Releasing an icon never feels right, but veteran players such as Thomas know the business side of the game.
