The news the entire Dog Pound was dreading has finally hit the board. Cleveland Browns long-time tackle Joe Thomas has officially called it a career, retiring from the National Football League.
Thomas offered up words on the Browns official website.
.@joethomas73 is calling it a career.
See you in Canton, Joe.
📰 » https://t.co/BoYpcxVcIg#ThankYou73 pic.twitter.com/gzEa8Z6tPK
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) March 14, 2018
“This was an extremely difficult decision, but the right one for me and my family,” Thomas said, via the team website. “Playing in the NFL has taken a toll on my body and I can no longer physically compete at the level I need to.”
For 11 seasons, Thomas has been the rock for an unstable organization.
“From the moment I was drafted, the city embraced me in a way that I could never fully describe. I am proud to call Cleveland home. The loyalty and passion of the fans is unmatched and it was an honor to play in front of them from the past 11 years. I would like to thank all of the coaches, teammates, staff, fans and everyone who has shown me support throughout my career. Even though I will be hanging up my cleats, I will always be a Cleveland Brown.”
Taken with the third pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, Thomas' accomplishments speak for itself.
He's a 10-time Pro Bowler and six-time First-Team All-Pro left tackle. Those accolades will have the big man skating into the Pro Football Hall of Fame once his time comes.
For the Dog Pound, their members are left with a “what could have been” narrative. With all of the exciting moves happening in The Land, Thomas, the most respected player in a rough era, won't be around to enjoy the new period of Cleveland Browns football.
Follow Us
Subscribe