Dolphins defensive back Michael Thomas headed for IR

Miami Dolphins defensive back Michael Thomas, hero of the team's 2013 win over the New England Patriots and solid contributor throughout the 2014 season, will be placed on Injured Reserve this week according to reports from ESPN's James Walker and the South Florida Sun Sentinel's Chris Perkins.

Thomas, who joined the Dolphins last year after starting the season on the San Francisco 49ers' practice squad, injured his chest during the team's 37-0 rout of the San Diego Chargers on Sunday. Thomas had been contributing on the Dolphins defense in the nickel and dime packages as well as a key member of the special teams.

He has 18 tackles this season, including three against the Chargers. Thomas endeared himself to Dolphins fans when he made the game saving interception of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the endzone with one second left on the clock, giving Miami the 24-20 upset win in Week 15 of the season.

No announcement of a player being signed to replace Thomas' spot on the roster has been made. The Dolphins face the Detroit Lions this Sunday.