By Darin - Lydell Mitchell revolutionized the running back position as an elite dual-threat weapon, shattering records at Penn State before achieving franchise-first milestones in the NFL.
Lydell Mitchell was born on May 30, 1949, in Salem, New Jersey. His journey into gridiron history began in his home state, but it was his spectacular transition to the collegiate and professional ranks that permanently cemented his status as a football icon.
College Career
Attending Penn State University from 1969 to 1971, Mitchell became a driving force of a legendary Nittany Lions offense alongside fellow future icon Franco Harris. Over his three varsity seasons, Mitchell helped guide Penn State to a phenomenal 29-4 record. His senior campaign in 1971 remains one of the greatest single-season performances in college football history. That year, Mitchell ran for a school-record 1,567 yards and broke three NCAA single-season records by scoring 29 total touchdowns (26 rushing) and racking up 174 points. His historic dominance earned him consensus First-Team All-American honors and a fifth-place finish in the 1971 Heisman Trophy balloting.
Road to the Pro Game
Mitchell’s prolific collegiate production caught the eye of pro scouts, leading to his selection by the Baltimore Colts in the second round (48th overall pick) of the 1972 NFL Draft. Transitioning to the professional ranks, he quickly established himself as a premier offensive weapon. In an era dominated by ground-and-pound strategies, Mitchell’s rare combination of vision, durability, and soft hands allowed him to thrive as an ultimate check-down option. Alongside quarterback Bert Jones, Mitchell propelled the Colts to three consecutive AFC East Division titles from 1975 to 1977, unseating the powerhouse Miami Dolphins.
Pro Teams Played On
Mitchell played the majority of his illustrious professional career with the Baltimore Colts (1972–1977), where he enjoyed his peak production. He later brought his versatile talents to the San Diego Chargers (1978–1979) and concluded his 10-season NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams (1980).
Football Legacy
Mitchell’s legacy is defined by his role as a pioneer of the modern, versatile running back. Long before the “scatback” or modern pass-catching tailbacks became offensive staples, Mitchell proved that a running back could dictate a game through both the air and trenches. He became the first player in Colts franchise history to record a 1,000-yard rushing season, a milestone he achieved three consecutive times. His impact on the game was formally immortalized in 2004 when he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats
College Highlights (Penn State):
- Career Rushing Yards: 2,934 yards (5.9 avg.)
- Total Career Touchdowns: 41 TDs (38 rushing)
- Awards: Consensus First-Team All-American (1971), College Football Hall of Fame Inductee (2004).
NFL Career Statistics & Honors:
- Rushing Statistics: 1,675 carries, 6,534 rushing yards, 30 rushing TDs.
- Receiving Statistics: 376 receptions, 3,203 receiving yards, 17 receiving TDs.
- Awards: 3× Pro Bowl Selection (1975–1977), 2× Second-Team All-Pro (1976, 1977), 2× NFL Receptions Leader (1974, 1977).