So it's now official, as you can see by the article on the Dolphins' official website. Zach Thomas is no longer a Miami Dolphin.
Here's what Zach had to say in a statement:
"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."
And he'll always be a Miami Dolphin in the hearts and minds of every single Dolphins fan.
Now onto the statement released by 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."
Blah, blah, blah. Why couldn't Ireland just come out and say that football is a business. Oh well.
Anyways, the post below this one has more on the release of Zach. Also, I'll be posting another article later on tonight/tomorrow with final thoughts on the release of Zach and what it might mean for the Dolphins as we move forward.
Regardless of all that, though, this is a tough day for every Miami Dolphins fan.