Kevin Mitchell is a former American football player who played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). He was born on June 28, 1971, in Atlanta, Georgia, and attended Southwest DeKalb High School in Decatur, Georgia. Mitchell played college football at Syracuse University, where he was a standout linebacker and earned All-American honors in 1993.
Mitchell was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the second round of the 1994 NFL Draft. He played for the 49ers for four seasons, from 1994 to 1997, and was a key member of their defense during their Super Bowl-winning season in 1994. Mitchell was known for his speed, agility, and hard-hitting style of play, and he quickly established himself as one of the best linebackers in the league.
In 1998, Mitchell signed with the New Orleans Saints as a free agent. He played for the Saints for three seasons, from 1998 to 2000, and was a team captain and defensive leader during his time there. Mitchell was known for his versatility and ability to play multiple linebacker positions, and he was a key contributor to the Saints' defense during his tenure.
After leaving the Saints, Mitchell signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2001. He played for the Jaguars for two seasons, from 2001 to 2002, and was a starter and key contributor on their defense during that time. Mitchell was known for his toughness and durability, and he played through a number of injuries during his career.
Mitchell's NFL career came to an end after the 2003 season, when he was released by the Jaguars. He finished his career with 617 tackles, 13.5 sacks, and 5 interceptions in 142 games played. Mitchell was known for his leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the game, and he was respected by his teammates and opponents alike.
After retiring from football, Mitchell went on to work as a coach and mentor for young athletes. He founded the Kevin Mitchell 34 Foundation, which provides scholarships and support to underprivileged youth in the Atlanta area. Mitchell also worked as a football analyst for ESPN and other media outlets, and he remained involved in the sport he loved throughout his post-playing career.
Overall, Kevin Mitchell was a talented and hard-working linebacker who made a significant impact on the NFL during his career. He was a key member of several successful teams and was respected for his leadership and dedication to the game. Mitchell's legacy as a player and mentor continues to inspire young athletes today.
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