Zach Thomas

Zachary Michael Thomas, born September 1, 1973, is an American former professional football player. He played as a middle linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for 13 seasons. Thomas attended Texas Tech University, where he played college football and was named a unanimous All-American. In the 1996 NFL Draft, he was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round, 22nd pick overall. Thomas spent 12 seasons with the Dolphins and his final season with the Dallas Cowboys. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including being voted the Dolphins Team Newcomer of the Year and winning two Dolphins Team MVP awards. Thomas was also recognized as the AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 1996. He is known for his leadership and was the first Dolphins player to win the Dolphins Team Leadership Award three times.