Keith Mitchell Dies at Age 51, Former NFL LB Made Pro Bowl With Saints

Former NFL linebacker Keith Mitchell has passed away at the age of 51.

Mitchell's family provided a statement to KBTX-TV, calling his death "sudden and unexpected."

KBTX-TV's Travis Brown relayed the statement.

"On behalf of our entire family, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming love, prayers, and support that have surrounded Keith during this incredibly difficult time.

"Your messages, encouragement, and kindness have meant more to us than words can express.

"We are profoundly grateful for every prayer lifted, every thoughtful message shared, and every act of compassion shown to our family.

"Keith dedicated his life to inspiring others through his professional NFL career, international speaking engagements, his book, and his unwavering commitment to mindfulness, meditation, and yoga.

"To witness that same love and generosity being poured back into him has been a tremendous source of comfort and strength for our family.

"Keith's passing was sudden and unexpected. As we begin to process this heartbreaking loss, we ask for your continued prayers as we await additional answers in the days ahead.

"We trust that God will continue to surround our family with His peace, grace, and strength as we navigate this difficult journey.

"Thank you for standing with us, for honoring Keith's life and legacy, and for keeping our family in your prayers."

The Saints also expressed their condolences.

Mitchell played in the NFL after starring for Texas A&M. For his collegiate career, Mitchell amassed 34 sacks (including 14.5 in his senior year). He also had 50 solo tackles during his 1996 senior season, which included spots on The Sporting News college All-American second team and the College Football News All-American first team.

Mitchell went undrafted out of college but landed with the Saints in 1997. He fared quite well over five seasons, starting from 1998-2001. Mitchell amassed a career-high 115 tackles in 1999 and 6.5 sacks in 2000, when he made the Pro Bowl.

The 2000 Saints team made the NFC Divisional round after upsetting the defending Super Bowl champion St. Louis Rams in the wild card round. Mitchell had three tackles and a sack in that game.

Mitchell played his last two NFL seasons with the 2002 Houston Texans and the 2003 Jacksonville Jaguars.