Emmitt Thomas - Notes & Quotes

Notes…

13th free agent rookie to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Still ranks fourth best in career interceptions by cornerbacks

Voted Chiefs Man-of-the-Year by the fans in 1976.

Inducted into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame in 1986.

Had 12 interceptions in 1974, two shy of fellow Hall of Famer Dick “Night Train” Lane’s record 

Thomas has covered nine of the 19 Hall of Fame modern-era wide receivers.

Long-time assistant coach in the NFL. Also served as the Atlanta Falcons interim head coach in 2007

Quotes…

"It's a great honor for me and my family. My wife and son over the years have been the two people constantly asking me why I'm not nominated. I think the Hall is the epitome of my career. I really do. I think when you get in there that's an elite fraternity to be a part of. I enjoyed being interim head coach here (Atlanta) and winning one game out of the last three but to be selected to the Hall of Fame is wild - Emmitt Thomas

“….in my heart I knew I had the stats and the career for this (Hall of Fame).  But it really didn’t bother me, I was just happy to get a chance to play.” – Emmitt Thomas

“Using today’s term ‘shut down’ corner, Emmitt could do it as well as anyone playing today.  You show your excellence by your dominance.” – Willie Lanier, Hall of Fame teammate

“Emmitt has been to Pro Bowls and won Super Bowls.  He ranks near the top in interceptions.  He’s probably one of the best big corners to ever play the game.” – DeAngelo Hall, NFL defensive back