Former Texas safety Earl Thomas may be released by the Baltimore Ravens after a troublesome offseason.
In April 2020, Thomas was held at gunpoint by his wife, Nina Heisser, after an alleged cheating scandal. In the court documents, Heisser alluded to the fact that Thomas had began drinking on a consistent basis.
His erratic behavior has unfortunately continued throughout Ravens camp. According to CBS Sports NFL reporter Jason La Canfora, Thomas’ participation in position meetings has been an issue.
It’s not just the off-field problems.
On Friday, Thomas was involved in a physical altercation on the field with fellow safety Chuck Clark. Several teammates believe that Thomas was in the wrong for the scuffle.
It appears that the Ravens could make a final decision on Thomas’ future as soon as Saturday. It’s not likely to end well considering the team’s leadership council does not want to tolerate that type of behavior.
The @Ravens situation with Earl Thomas could come to a head today. Sources said the team's Leadership Council made it clear to decision makers they would prefer Thomas not be around. Cap hit could be issue but "conduct detrimental" clause provides potential avenue for relief
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) August 22, 2020
The potential for team discipline such as a suspension has seemed likely, but it’s possible that Thomas’ career as a Raven could be over completely.
It can’t be an easy decision considering Thomas is a three-time first-team All-Pro and one of the most talented and productive safeties in the NFL. On top of that, his contract has more dead money right now than the Ravens have cap space.
Oddly enough, another former Longhorn could fill in for Thomas should he continue his career elsewhere. Ravens players have voiced confidence and strong support for DeShon Elliott.
Elliott was drafted by Baltimore in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The rising safety compiled six tackles last season before being placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury.
