DT Thomas Re-Signs With Pats

By CBSNews.com staff CBSNews.com staff

February 16, 1999 / 4:49 PM EST / CBS Sportsline

Henry Thomas, one of the most active defensive tackles in the league, re-signed with the New England Patriots on Monday for three years.

A 12-year veteran, Thomas had five sacks, a fumble recovery and an interception last year. According to his agent, Jeff Durand, Thomas was being pursued by seven other teams, including five in the AFC.

Durand did not reveal financial terms but said the deal keeps Thomas in the "upper echelon of compensation" among defensive tackles. The average salary for the five highest-paid players at the position was $4.2 million in 1998.

Thomas, 34, has been selected to two Pro Bowls. He has 84 ½ sacks and started all but one game in his career.

New England was 10th in the conference in overall defense but fifth against the rush. The Patriots already have been hurt by free agency, losing veteran punter-quarterback Tom Tupa and promising center Dave Wohlabaugh.

Thomas spent his first eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, reaching the playoffs six times. He signed with the Detroit Lions as a free agent in February 1995 but was released in May 1997.