MIAMI — Zach Thomas has retired as a member of the Miami Dolphins.

The longtime linebacker signed a ceremonial contract with the Dolphins at their training facility in Davie, Fla. on Thursday, so he could leave the game as part of the franchise he spent 12 seasons with.

Only a fifth-round draft pick out of Texas Tech in 1996, Thomas became a star for the Dolphins. He was one of the faces of the franchise along with the likes of Dan Marino and Jason Taylor, who became Thomas' brother-in-law.

With Miami, Thomas had 1,038 tackles, 19½ sacks and 17 interceptions in 168 games, and he was chosen for seven Pro Bowls.