Former Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas on Tuesday took an important step toward having his case for entrance into the Pro Football Hall of Fame heard by voters when he was selected one of 25 semifinalists for the Hall of Fame.
Former Dallas Cowboys and Dolphins coach Jimmy Johnson, who selected Thomas in the fifth round of the 1996 draft, also is among a contingent of men with South Florida ties to be selected among the 25 semifinalists. That group also includes former University of Miami running back Edgerrin James and former University of Miami safety Ed Reed.