Devin Thomas seems to be disappointed, but not entirely surprised about his release earlier today. In a lengthy conversation with the Washington Post this afternoon, Thomas discussed the circumstances surrounding his departure from the Redskins.
"I still don't know, to this day, what it was or what I did ... I went out and I worked as hard as I could. Even when it was clear, you know, that they weren't going to play me, I just kept doing everything I could to try to show them I deserved to be out there. I had guys [teammates] telling me I should be out there and that they knew I could help the team win. And that's all I wanted a chance to do."
For what it's worth, Thomas was sixth in the NFL in kick returns with a 28-yard average. He didn't participate in a single offensive play, but did his best when asked to contribute on special teams. Thomas is likely to be replaced as kick returner by the recently acquired Chad Simpson.
Thomas claims that he still doesn't have a clear reason from the coaching staff for his release.
"Maybe I just wasn't the type they're looking for. Maybe they just don't want a big-play receiver who can do everything. Maybe that wasn't appealing to them. I mean, I really don't know what it was. I wish I did know, but it is what it is. They made a decision. I guess it's best for me, too. Now, I can go to a team that wants me to make plays and help them win. But maybe I'll never know what it was."
Thomas will be replaced on the active roster for Sunday's game by Keiland Williams. The running back was signed from the practice squad today, and is likely to see plenty of action as Washington's third down back on passing downs, where he'll be filling in for the injured Clinton Portis.