Former NFL Player Keith Mitchell Dies at 51

Former NFL linebacker Keith Mitchell has passed away at the age of 51, as announced on Thursday. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Mitchell was a standout at Texas A&M University, where he earned All-American honors in 1996. His sack total during his college career placed him among the top in the program's history.

Despite going undrafted in 1997 due to size concerns, he signed with the New Orleans Saints and played there until 2001. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 2000.

Over his NFL career, Mitchell recorded 286 solo tackles, 19.5 sacks, and four interceptions while playing for the Saints, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

In 2003, he suffered a spinal injury during a game that ended his playing career and threatened his ability to walk. However, he eventually recovered and regained his mobility.

Keith Mitchell is remembered as a resilient and talented player who overcame doubts about his size to succeed at the highest level. His sudden death has saddened NFL fans and former teammates.