Week 16 Outlook
Availability
The Dolphins Wire is reporting free agent TE Julius Thomas has retired.
Fantasy Impact
After seven years in the NFL, Thomas is retiring to pursue a doctorate degree in psychology. The former Broncos, Jaguars and Dolphins tight end could have continued his playing career but told the press that he wants to be remembered as more than just an NFL athlete. He is only 30-years-old.
Miami Dolphins beat writer Armando Salguero is reporting that the team is will release TE Julius Thomas this offseason.
Fantasy Impact
It comes as no surprise that the Dolphins will move on from Thomas this offseason. Per reports, they are in line to release him prior to the March 14 start to the new league year in a move that will save the Dolphins $6.6 million in cap space. Initially signing Thomas in an attempt to rekindle the old flame he had with head coach Adam Gase with the Broncos -- Thomas scored 24 TDs while Gase was the Broncos OC back in 2013-2014 -- the 29-year-old TE's time in Miami will come to an end following one disappointing season. He finished 2017 with 41 receptions, 388 yards, and three TDs in 14 games.
The Dolphins have placed Julius Thomas on injured reserve due to a foot injury he suffered on Sunday in the game versus Buffalo. He ends the season with 41 catches for 388 yards and three touchdowns
Fantasy Impact
Unfulfilled expectations is the story for Julius Thomas and the Dolphins. Thomas isn't likely to return as the Dolphins are due to pay him $6.6 million next year, but won't get a cap hit if they release him.
Miami Herald's Barry Jackson believes Julius Thomas won't play for the Dolphins next year. The team takes a $6.6 million 2018 cap hit if he remains with the team, but not if they cut him.
Fantasy Impact
Thomas never met the expectations that he he'd be a popular red-zone option for Jay Cutler who also had worked in a Adam Gase offense in the past. He has 41 receptions for 388 yards, with three touchdowns on the season.
Julius Thomas caught 2 of four targets for 15 yards. His longest reception was 11 yards.
Fantasy Impact
Thomas couldn't help the Miami offense overcome poor quarterback play by Jay Cutler, and a defense that allowed LeSean McCoy and Tyrod Taylor pretty much have their way all day.
