The NFL quickly realized what the Miami Dolphins had in 1996 fifth-round pick Zach Thomas — a unanimous All-American inside linebacker who started three seasons at Texas Tech.
Thomas earned his first of five All-Pro nods in his third season, and the two-time NFL tackles leader hit the ground running with a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie team in 1996 after leading the team with 154 tackles. Thomas was one of six players to start every game on Miami’s defense that season but coach Jimmy Johnson recognized his potential before he logged his first live snap.