In one of the more surprising moments of the offseason, Bears wide receiver Devin Thomas announced his retirement from the NFL on Sunday morning.
Thomas broke the news via his Twitter account:
I have decided to retire from the NFL. Devin Thomas (@IamDevinThomas) August 5, 2012
The Bears signed Thomas to a one-year contract back in March and he was expected to be a key contributor on special teams. Thomas was a main factor in helping the Giants win the NFC, recovering two fumbles on special teams in the NFC Championship Game en route to New York's magical run to the Super Bowl.
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The 25-year-old Thomas was drafted 34th overall out of Michigan State by the Redskins in 2008, but never reached the potential that scouts saw in him. In his career, he recorded 43 receptions, 462 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
Thomas appeared to have a leg up on Dane Sanzenbacher for the final wide receiver spot on the Bears roster. Now it appears that Sanzenbacher and undrafted free agent Brittan Golden will fight it out in preseason to be the team's sixth wideout.
Looking at Thomas' Twitter account, it appears he's happy with his decision and wants to help mentor young children:
God has blessed me w achieving a childhood dream. I want to give back to my hometown and coachmentor kids so they can reach their own. 1LUV Devin Thomas (@IamDevinThomas) August 5, 2012
Thomas isn't the first Bear to opt for retirement in the offseason. Running back Marion Barber called it quits from the NFL on March 23.