By admin 
The NFL world received word this week that former New Orleans Saints linebacker Keith Mitchell passed away. He was 51 years old.
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Mitchell, a former All-American at Texas A&M, joined the Saints in 1997 and eventually developed into a Pro Bowler. He then spent time with the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars before wrapping up his NFL career.
Despite not being selected in the 1997 NFL Draft, Mitchell went on to have 416 tackles, 19.5 sacks, 10 forced fumbles and four interceptions as a pro.
On Thursday night, the Mitchell family sadly announced that he passed away unexpectedly.
“As we begin to process this heartbreaking loss, we ask for your continued prayers as we await additional answers in the days ahead,” the family told KBTX. “We trust that God will continue to surround our family with His peace, grace, and strength as we navigate this difficult journey.”
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Keith Mitchell had an incredible run with the Saints.
Even though Mitchell finished his NFL career in the AFC, he’s best known for the run he had with the Saints. They went 10-6 during the 2000 season in large part because of their defense.
“In 2000, Mitchell enjoyed his finest season as the Saints captured the NFC West and the franchise’s first-ever playoff victory. He 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. Mitchell was tied for fourth in the NFL in fumble recoveries and second in the league with two defensive touchdowns. He won NFC Defensive Player of the Week twice, was selected to the Pro Bowl and named a Sports Illustrated All-Pro. Mitchell’s 90-yard return for a touchdown at Carolina on Nov. 12 is still the longest fumble return in franchise record books. In the team’s 31-24 NFC Wild Card Playoff win over the St. Louis Rams on Dec. 30, Mitchell affected the quarterback with two split-sacks,” the team said in a statement.
“… The Saints extend their sympathies to the Mitchell family and their loved ones during these challenging times.”
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We’re keeping Mitchell’s friends and family members in our thoughts.
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This story was originally published July 3, 2026 at 11:45 AM.