Joe Thomas talks about his induction into the NFL hall of fame and munich

NFL tackle often went beyond his personal limits

In 2023, Joe Thomas is inducted into the Hall of Fame after an outstanding NFL career. Rarely did the left tackle miss a game during his playing career. From 2007 to 2017, Joe Thomas completed a remarkable 10,363 consecutive snaps, or offensive plays. An injury to his triceps ended this incredible streak.

Before that, the 1.98-meter giant battled through numerous injuries. Neither a ligament tear in 2012 nor requests for substitutions during significant leads could move Thomas off the field. After eleven years, the Browns' number 73 ended his NFL career in 2017 and initially left football behind.

A visit to Munich profoundly changes his life

In 2022, a visit to the first NFL game in Munich, between Seattle and Tampa Bay, took place. It didn't take long for Bavaria's capital city to captivate Joe Thomas. The experienced offensive lineman didn't hesitate and decided to pass on his knowledge to the next generation. He was thrilled by European American football and, in January 2024, was introduced as the position coach for the Munich Ravens from the European League of Football.

Furthermore, the American is doing important grassroots work. Together with the Bavarian American Football Academy (BAFA) and the Munich Ravens, Thomas offers camps for youth aged 17 and up. These camps specifically target offensive line players – a position often overlooked. "The way football is developing in Europe makes me want to keep coming back. Europe seems to be something like the Mecca of football outside the United States," says an enthusiastic Joe Thomas.

His journey from NFL player to ELF coach

Profile: Joe Thomas

Name: Joseph Hayden Thomas

Date of birth: December 4, 1984

Place of birth: Brookfield, Wisconsin, USA

Nationality: American

Occupation: Former American football player, offensive line coach

Playing career:

Joe Thomas is a former American football player who played the position of offensive tackle. He is known for his outstanding career with the Cleveland Browns in the NFL.

College: University of Wisconsin

Joe Thomas played college football for the Wisconsin Badgers and was honored multiple times for his accomplishments, including the Outland Trophy for the best interior lineman in college football.

NFL career:

Team: Cleveland Browns

Playing time: 2007-2017

Joe Thomas was selected by the Cleveland Browns as the third overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft.

Accomplishments:

10-time Pro Bowl participant (2007-2016)

6-time First-team All-Pro (2009-2011, 2013-2015)

Famously started his career with a record streak of 10,363 consecutive snaps, one of the longest streaks in NFL history.

Hall of Fame:

Joe Thomas was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, an honor that recognizes his outstanding career and impact on the sport.

Coaching Career:

After his playing career, Joe Thomas embarked on a coaching career, using his knowledge and experience to train the next generation of football players.

Current club: Munich Ravens

Joe Thomas is currently the Offensive Line Coach for the Munich Ravens, a team in the European League of Football (ELF). In this role, he brings his extensive experience and expertise to building and developing the team's offensive line.

Personal:

Joe Thomas is known for his professionalism, dedication and commitment to American football. His career has been characterized by consistency, excellence and leadership.

Hobbies and interests:

In addition to his passion for football, Joe Thomas has a strong connection to the outdoors and enjoys activities such as fishing and hiking. He is also an avid cook and enjoys spending time with his family.

Media Activities:

After retiring from active play, Joe Thomas has also worked as an analyst and commentator for various media outlets, including NFL Network and other sports broadcasters.

Joe Thomas remains a central figure in American football, both in the USA and internationally. His move to the Munich Ravens demonstrates his willingness to promote the sport globally and share his expertise outside the US.