Zach Thomas
Pro Football Hall of Famer / Dolphins Legend
Miami Connection
Zach Thomas defined Dolphins defense for over a decade, leading in tackles 10 times and helping secure seven straight top-10 total defense rankings. As the franchise's all-time tackle leader and most-selected Pro Bowl defender, he became a beloved icon in Miami Gardens, earning Ring of Honor induction. His 2023 Hall of Fame enshrinement as the 11th Dolphin honoree solidified his lasting influence on South Florida sports culture.
About
Born in Pampa, Texas, Zach Thomas starred at Texas Tech as a unanimous All-American before being drafted in the fifth round by the Miami Dolphins in 1996. He quickly became a Dolphins starter, earning AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year and leading the team in tackles for a decade. Thomas amassed 1,734 career tackles, ranking among NFL leaders, with seven Pro Bowl selections and five first-team All-Pro honors, anchoring Miami's top-10 defenses from 1998-2004. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, he is the 11th Dolphin so honored and a member of the Dolphins Ring of Honor. After retiring, he hosts Dolphins fan events in Miami, including trips abroad. He owns fitness centers in Texas but maintains strong ties to South Florida through his Dolphins legacy.