Sam Mills A Working Man's Linebacker

Sam Mills, born on June 3, 1959, in Neptune, New Jersey, was a linebacker whose extraordinary career defied expectations and earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

✦ College Career

Mills began his football journey at Montclair State College (now Montclair State University). Despite his relatively small stature for a linebacker, he became a dominant force at the Division III level. He set school records for career tackles (501), single-season tackles (142), and tackles in a single game (22). Mills was a three-time ECAC Metropolitan All-Star, a two-time All-East selection, a two-time Co-SIDA All-American, and a First-Team Kodak All-American. His college career showcased his remarkable talent and determination, foreshadowing his success at higher levels of competition.

✦ Road to the Pro Game

Mills' path to the NFL was unconventional. After being cut by the Cleveland Browns and the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, he found his first professional success in the United States Football League (USFL) with the Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars from 1983 to 1985. In the USFL, he won two championships and was a three-time All-USFL selection, establishing himself as one of the league's premier defensive players.

When the USFL folded, Mills joined the New Orleans Saints in 1986. He played there from 1986-1994. Later in his career, Mills played for the Carolina Panthers (1995-1997). Despite concerns about his size, Mills' exceptional instincts, toughness, and relentless work ethic made him a highly effective and respected player.

✦ Football Legacy

Sam Mills' football legacy is one of perseverance, determination, and exceptional play. Though considered undersized, he consistently outperformed expectations, becoming one of the most productive linebackers of his era. He was a leader on the field, known for his intensity and ability to inspire his teammates. His contributions to the New Orleans Saints' "Dome Patrol" defense and his role in the Carolina Panthers' early success cemented his place in NFL history. The Carolina Panthers' team motto "Keep Pounding" originated from a speech Mills gave while battling cancer. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022.

✦ Accolades, Awards, and Career Stats

✦ Pro Football Hall of Fame (inducted in 2022)

✦ 5 Pro Bowl selections (1987, 1988, 1991, 1992, 1996)

✦ 3 First-team All-Pro selections (1991, 1992, 1996)

✦ 1,265 tackles

✦ 20.5 sacks

✦ 11 interceptions

✦ 23 fumble recoveries

✦ 4 defensive touchdowns