Former Saints Linebacker Keith Mitchell Passes Away at 51

WHO:

neworleanssaints.com - Keith Mitchell, former NFL linebacker and team legend for the New Orleans Saints.

NBC Sports - Texas A&M athletics announced Mitchell's death.

WHAT:

neworleanssaints.com - In 1998, Mitchell forced a career-high four forced fumbles, tied for third in the NFL, and recovered three, tied for second in the league, with one returned for a 63-yard touchdown against New England.

neworleanssaints.com - In 1999, Mitchell had a career-high and team-best 104 tackles, three interceptions, 14 passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

neworleanssaints.com - In 2000, Mitchell collected 94 tackles, a career-high 6.5 sacks, returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown, and had four fumble recoveries, one returned 90 yards for a touchdown.

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell was tied for fourth in the NFL in fumble recoveries and second in the league with two defensive touchdowns in 2000.

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell's 90-yard return for a touchdown at Carolina on November 12 is still the longest fumble return in franchise record books.

neworleanssaints.com - In the 2001 season, Mitchell made 97 tackles in 15 games, two sacks, four passes defensed, and one forced fumble.

neworleanssaints.com - Keith Mitchell passed away at the age of 51.

NBC Sports - Mitchell earned Pro Bowl honors in 2000.

NBC Sports - Mitchell totaled 408 tackles and 19.5 sacks in 94 career games.

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Saints in 1997 and played for five seasons in New Orleans.

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell was inducted into the A&M Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015.

WHERE:

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell played for the New Orleans Saints, Houston Texans, and Jacksonville Jaguars during his professional career.

NBC Sports - Mitchell had a successful college career at Texas A&M.

WHEN:

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell played for the Saints from 1997 through 2001.

NBC Sports - Mitchell was named an All-American in 1996.

WHY:

NY Post - The cause of Mitchell's death was described as “sudden and unexpected” by his family.

HOW:

neworleanssaints.com - Mitchell made the Saints' 53-man roster after being signed as an undrafted free agent.

Mitchell had an impressive career in the NFL, highlighted by a standout 1998 season where he forced a career-high four fumbles and recovered three, including a remarkable 63-yard touchdown return against New England. In 2000, he continued to shine with 94 tackles, a career-high 6.5 sacks, and a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown, while also tying for fourth in the league in fumble recoveries. His 90-yard fumble return for a touchdown against Carolina on November 12 remains the longest in franchise history, showcasing his exceptional defensive skills throughout his career.