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ILB Zach Thomas, Dallas Cowboys

HT: 5-11, WT: 235, Born: 9-1-1973, College: Texas Tech, Drafted: Round 5

2008 Projections

Best Case

Without question, Thomas' best case scenario is dependent on the concussion issue that plagued him last season not recurring. Thomas, though he'll turn 35 before the season begins, has yet to have an unproductive season when healthy. Last year, his 42 solo tackles in five games would have projected him to finish with 125+ solo tackles. Thomas moves into a 3-4 scheme with Dallas this season, but it'll be one that very closely resembles the hybrid scheme in which he had success under Nick Saban. Another top ten fantasy finish is easily within reach if he's healthy for all 16 games.

Worst Case

Thomas finished only five games last season after not being cleared for contact after suffering multiple concussions. At age 35, already with back and leg issues in recent years, the added concussion concerns make Thomas a significant health risk. There's also no guarantee that Thomas plays to his former levels, especially in a new defensive scheme, or that he'll stay on the field on all passing downs. Thomas' floor is as low as you can find in the league -- one concussion in training camp and he may not play a down in 2008.

Outlook

The outlook on Thomas is all about risk tolerance. If you have the roster and lineup to take a chance on a potential top ten player as a LB2 or LB3, he's easily worth the risk -- if only for the boost he'll give your lineup while he's healthy. If not, while Thomas isn't exactly in the same category as Dan Morgan, it's probably best to look elsewhere until his value is too good to pass up.

Writeups last modified: 2008-06-13 12:53:48