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Former NFL Linebacker Keith Mitchell Dies at 51

7/3/2026

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Summary

Keith Mitchell Dies

Keith Mitchell, a former NFL linebacker, died at age 51.
He signed with the New Orleans Saints in 1997 after playing at Texas A&M.
During five seasons he recorded 272 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and returned a 40-yard interception and a 90-yard fumble for touchdowns.
A September 14, 2003 tackle caused a spinal contusion, after which he became a yoga instructor and founded the Light It Up Foundation.

Summary

Mitchell Inspires Wellness

Mitchell entered the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015.
He earned All-Southwest Conference honors in 1995, All-Big 12 and first-team All-American recognition in 1996.
After a spinal injury, he became a motivational speaker who travels worldwide to share wellness expertise.
He released the book “The Mindfulness Mastery Playbook” late last year.

Summary

Mitchell Remembered

The family said Mitchell’s death was sudden and unexpected and asked for prayers.
The New Orleans Saints posted a condolence on X, calling him a team legend.
Texas A&M athletics confirmed his passing to KBTX on Thursday, noting his lasting Aggie connection.
His February 6 Instagram post taught breathing-based mindfulness with belly breathing while Times-Picayune reporter Jeff Duncan noted his rise from undrafted free agent to Pro Bowl.

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Keith Mitchell Dies

Keith Mitchell, a former NFL linebacker, died at age 51.
He signed with the New Orleans Saints in 1997 after playing at Texas A&M.
During five seasons he recorded 272 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and returned a 40-yard interception and a 90-yard fumble for touchdowns.
A September 14, 2003 tackle caused a spinal contusion, after which he became a yoga instructor and founded the Light It Up Foundation.

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