Bryan Thomas (American football)

Bryan Thomas (born June 7, 1979) is an American football linebacker for the New York Jets of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Jets 22nd overall in the 2002 NFL Draft. He played college football at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Early life
Thomas was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he played college football for the UAB Blazers.

2002 NFL Draft
The 6'4" Thomas had an impressive combine performance that elevated him from a mid-second round pick to the first round.

New York Jets
Thomas played his entire career as a defensive end until being converted to a linebacker in the 3-4 defense for the Jets during the 2006 NFL season. Thomas became a defensive end when Mangini used a 4-3 defense.

Thomas led the New York Jets in sacks with 8.5 sacks. This was his breakout season playing as an outside linebacker with new head coach Eric Mangini. At the end of the 2006 season, Thomas was awarded a new contract. In 2007, Thomas reverted to the disappointing play that had previously been the hallmark of his career. This raised concerns that Thomas was a "one year wonder" or a "contract year" player. In particular, comments made by Thomas during the 2007 season where he said he had not thought it necessary to "continue to work to improve" left many Jets fans extremely concerned.

Thomas suffered a torn Achilles tendon on October 2, 2011.

Thomas was released by the Jets on September 22, 2012 after suffering a hamstring injury. Two days later the Jets re-signed him.