finished the 2007 season with 52 combined tackles (42 solo), two pass deflections, and a sack in five games and five starts. 2008 On January 1, 2008, the Miami Dolphins fired head coach Cam Cameron after a 1-15 record. On February 14, 2008, the Miami Dolphins released Thomas after announcing that he no longer fit into their long term plans and his contract was terminated. Thomas received offers from the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints and New England Patriots. Dallas Cowboys On February 23, 2008, the Dallas Cowboys signed Thomas to a one-year, $3 million contract that included a signing bonus of $1 million. The signing of Thomas surprised media and observers, considering that he didn't have the previous experience or the size to play in the Cowboys 3-4 defense. After he joined the roster, the Cowboys traded linebacker Akin Ayodele to the Miami Dolphins to clear space for Thomas to become a starter at inside linebacker. Thomas started alongside Bradie James and outside linebackers DeMarcus Ware and Greg Ellis. In Week 4, he collected a season-high 12 combined tackles (six solo) during the Cowboys' 26–24 loss to the Washington Redskins. He finished the season with 94 combined tackles (65 solo), three pass deflections, and a sack in 16 games and 14 starts. Kansas City Chiefs An unrestricted free agent in the 2009 offseason, Thomas agreed to terms with the Kansas City Chiefs on April 11. The one-year contract was worth $2 million. He suffered a concussion early in training camp and was eventually released on September 5, after not playing in any exhibition games. In October, he filed a grievance against the Chiefs for releasing him without an injury settlement while recovering. Retirement On May 18, 2010, the Miami Dolphins signed Thomas to a one-day ceremonial contract, officially worth $1, in order to retire as a member of the Miami Dolphins. He also owns the Zach's Club 54 in Amarillo and Lubbock. Awards and honors In addition to being a seven-time All-Pro selection by the Associated Press and a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, Thomas earned the following awards and honors in his NFL career: NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month (October 1996) All-Rookie selection by College & Pro Football Newsweekly, The Football News, Pro Football Weekly and Pro Football Writers of America (1996) AFC Defensive Rookie of the Year (1996) Dolphins' 1996 Unsung Hero Award as selected by NFLPA