American · Neptune City, New Jersey · Born 3 June 1959 · Died 2005-04-18American linebacker who overcame size limitations to become a dominant NFL defender, earning Pro Bowl honors and Hall of Fame induction in 2022.
Samuel Davis Mills was born in Neptune City, New Jersey in 1959. He was too small (5ft 9in) for the NFL Draft and went undrafted before playing in the USFL. He went on to earn five Pro Bowl selections with New Orleans and Carolina. He was named to the Carolina Panthers coaching staff and became a symbol of the franchise after being diagnosed with intestinal cancer in 2003 — continuing to coach and inspire the team. His speech 'Keep Pounding' to the Panthers before his 2003 NFC Championship win became the team's motto. He died in 2005. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022.
Undersized linebacker who excelled despite being 5'9", team captain and defensive leader
How They Played
Instinctive middle linebacker with exceptional football IQ, leadership, and tackling ability despite small stature
Lasting Impact
Proved that heart and intelligence could overcome physical limitations in the NFL
Career Honours
- NFL Champion (Carolina 2003 runner-up)
- Pro Bowl 5x
- Hall of Fame 2022
- Pro Football Hall of Fame 2022
- Saints Hall of Fame
- College Football Hall of Fame 2003
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| New Orleans Saints | 1986–1994 | 133 |
| Carolina Panthers | 1995–1997 | 48 |
| Cleveland Browns | 1981–1981 | — |
| Toronto Argonauts | 1982–1982 | — |
| Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars (USFL) | 1983–1985 | — |
American Athletes