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The Baltimore Ravens made the move official, releasing safety Earl Thomas a few days after his fight with fellow safety Chuck Clark. Though Thomas tried to plead his case, posting video of the play in question on Saturday, it didn’t change Baltimore’s decision.
Following the move, Thomas took to Instagram to thank the organization and general manager Eric DeCosta.
“I appreciate the Ravens organization for the opportunity. Had a great run .. Wish things would have ended different but you live and you learn. Thank you Eric DeCosta and everyone else who played a role in bringing me to B-More. Wish you guys the best”
This marks a markedly different reaction to the end of his time with the Seattle Seahawks. Thomas had been publicly frustrated with Seattle’s unwillingness to redo his contract, eventually flipping off Seahawks coach Pete Carroll after breaking his leg in 2018.
The Ravens were lauded for signing Thomas last offseason. While Thomas’ contract was seen by some as a little too high for a player toward the end of his career, Baltimore saw it as an opportunity to bolster their secondary. Thomas fulfilled that promise last season, being selected to his seventh Pro Bowl after helping the Ravens’ defense post the third-fewest points and fourth-fewest total yards.
However, Thomas didn’t come without some troubles as well. He got into a heated argument with defensive tackle Brandon Williams after the team’s Week 4 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Thomas also had an altercation with his wife this offseason that drew headlines. With yet another fight in less than a year, it was clear Baltimore was done with Thomas’ antics regardless of how impressive he was on the field.
With his release, Thomas is now an unrestricted free agent capable of signing with any team. Though it’s late in the offseason, Thomas will likely have a handful of suitors.
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