Sports News Report
League: NFLSport: FootballCountry: United StatesCategory: Playoffs

Jim Mitchell, former Lions defensive lineman, dies at 77

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 8:26 PM

Last updated Jun 23, 2026

Jim Mitchell, former Lions defensive lineman, dies at 77
Summary

Jim Mitchell, a defensive lineman for the Detroit Lions in the 1970s, passed away on June 20 at the age of 77. Drafted in the third round in 1970, he played eight seasons and started 67 games, contributing to the team's only playoff appearance that decade. Mitchell was known for mentoring younger players and was described as a relentless competitor by teammates. After retiring, he transitioned to the auto industry, owning multiple dealerships in Virginia.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Key Details
  • •Mitchell was a third-round pick out of Virginia State in 1970.
  • •He started 67 games and played in 101 total games for the Lions.
  • •Mitchell recorded 18 career sacks, with a high of five in 1972.
  • •After football, he owned car dealerships in Virginia.
  • •His legacy includes being a mentor to younger players.
Latest Updates
  • 8:26 PMYahoo Sports — Jim Mitchell, ex-Detroit Lions DL, auto dealer, dies at 77
What they're saying
"

Jim Mitchell, a third-round pick in 1970, started 67 games over 8 seasons for the Detroit Lions in the 1970s.

Related Teams & Leagues
Detroit LionsNFLFootball

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days