Former Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas speaks after his bust is unveiled during the 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Zach Thomas honors late HOFer who inspired him most

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/5/23

Unsurprisingly, 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Zach Thomas thanked many who helped him earn a bust in Canton. However, fighting back tears, he saved the late Junior Seau for last, who Thomas said he emulated his career after.

"His poster hung on my wall in college and he was everything I wanted to be as a football player," Thomas said. "He was my inspiration and he became my teammate and friend."

Voice cracking, Thomas added that he was "truly honored" to join Seau among the immortals in Canton.

"Junior Seau, love you, buddy," Thomas said, pointing skyward.

"His poster hung on my wall in college and he was everything I wanted to be as a football player. He was my inspiration and he became my teammate and friend."

An emotional tribute from Zach Thomas to Junior Seau ❤️

: #PFHOF23 Enshrinement on @NFLNetwork
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Seau, who took his own life in 2012, was inducted into the Hall of Fame three years later. The dynamic linebacker spent most of his career with the San Diego Chargers, but after 13 seasons, Seau joined the Miami Dolphins, where he played three years lined up beside Thomas.

Unlike his idol, Thomas was a fifth-round pick of the Dolphins in 1996, yet still rose to the level of Seau, who was selected fifth overall six years earlier. A seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro, Thomas still ranks fifth in career tackles 15 years after his career ended in 2008.

Even after a Hall of Fame 13-year career, arguably one of the best linebackers the game has ever seen proved that even the greats have heroes.

In Thomas' case, he was lucky enough to work alongside his at the highest level. And now, years later, Seau and Thomas are back together again in Canton.

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