Redskins release Devin Thomas

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Mike Shanahan: Devin Thomas must commit to being a pro
On Saturday, Redskins Coach Mike Shanahan made the decision to release third-year receiver Devin Thomas. On Sunday, following the Redskins' 16-13 overtime win, Shanahan explained his reasoning.

"I sat down and talked to Devin many times and told him what he needed to do to be a pro football player," Shanahan said, "both on and off of the football field. And if he does do that, both on and off of the football field, he'll have a chance to play in the National Football League. But until he does that -- he's got the talent. He sure does. But he's going to have to commit to being a pro."

Shanahan did not elaborate on how Thomas wasn't conducting himself as a pro.

Thomas was on the field for only one offensive possession in the team's first four games. He was used primarily as a kickoff returner. The Redskins used two returners in his place Sunday: Chad Simpson and Brandon Banks both lined up deep on kickoffs

Banks had two returns for a total of 33 yards, Simpson had 27 yards in his lone return and Byron Westbrook also returned once for six yards.

By Rick Maese | October 10, 2010; 8:55 PM ET

Redskins Insider - Mike Shanahan: Devin Thomas must commit to being a pro

Wonder what he means by this.. Was he having a hard time with the playbook? Smoot said earlier he seemed like he was putting the extra time in during preseason.. Maybe he just gave up and was pissed off about playing time?

Armstrong has been money, but I still would have liked more YOUTH at the position. I'm still sad that DT was a bust. Maybe Kelly can pick it up next year, if he ever gets healthy..