Lydell Mitchell

Lydell Douglas Mitchell, born May 30, 1949, in Salem, New Jersey, is an American former professional football running back who played in the National Football League from 1972 to 1980. He attended Salem High School, where he played football, basketball, and baseball, earning All-South Jersey honors as a sophomore. At Penn State, Mitchell played for the Nittany Lions and set several NCAA and school rushing and scoring records.

Across nine NFL seasons, Mitchell played for the Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers, and Los Angeles Rams. He was known for his versatility as both a runner and a pass catcher. He became the first Colt in franchise history to gain 1,000 yards in a single season, a feat he achieved three times. He also led the NFL in receptions in 1974 and 1977.

Mitchell earned three Pro Bowl selections from 1975 through 1977 and was named All-Pro Second-Team twice, in 1976 and 1977.