Though the specific term for characterizing his departure has yet to be determined, linebacker Zach Thomas is expected to end his NFL career this week.
The news comes from Adam Schefter of ESPN, who explains that Thomas will retire or accept an injury settlement from the Chiefs or be cut.
Per Schefter, Thomas is done “barring the unforeseen” -- a phrase that should be attached to pretty much every NFL player who retires, thanks to a quarterback with a partially torn rotator cuff and a cracked rib.
Thomas spent 12 years in Miami and last season with the Cowboys, where he appeared in 16 games and started 14 of them.
UPDATE: Agent Drew Rosenhaus says that Thomas won’t be retiring.