Ep 5. Sam Mills

Sam Mills was a professional football player who played for 12 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He was a linebacker who was known for his leadership and tenacity on the field. This episode of A Football Life, season 8 episode 5, explores the life and career of this beloved player.

Sam Mills was born in 1959 in Neptune City, New Jersey. He grew up in a loving family and was a standout athlete in high school. Mills attended Montclair State University where he continued to excel in football. Despite having a successful college career, Mills went undrafted in the 1981 NFL Draft. He eventually signed with the Cleveland Browns as a free agent but was released before the start of the season.

Mills spent the next two seasons playing in the USFL for the Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars. He was a crucial member of the team that won two championships and was named the USFL's Defensive Player of the Year in 1985. When the USFL folded in 1986, Mills returned to the NFL as a member of the New Orleans Saints.

In New Orleans, Mills found a home. He played for the Saints for eight seasons and was a team captain for seven of those years. Mills was a fan favorite and was known for his grit and determination on the field. In 1990, he was named to the Pro Bowl and was named the team's MVP. Mills was also the recipient of the Ed Block Courage Award in 1992.

Throughout his career, Mills battled some tough opponents on the field, but his biggest battle was off the field. In 2003, he was diagnosed with intestinal cancer and was given just a few months to live. Despite the diagnosis, Mills remained positive and continued to inspire those around him. He even returned to the field at the 2003 Pro Bowl as an honorary captain. Mills passed away in April 2005 at the age of 45, but his legacy lives on.

In this episode of A Football Life, viewers will learn about the life and career of Sam Mills. Through interviews with former teammates, coaches, and family members, viewers will get an inside look at Mills as both a player and a person. The episode explores Mills' early life, his time in the USFL, and his years with the New Orleans Saints. It also delves into Mills' battle with cancer and the impact he had on those around him.

Fans of the NFL will love this episode of A Football Life as it provides a fascinating glimpse into the career of one of the sport's most beloved players. Viewers will come away with a newfound appreciation for Mills' contribution to the game and the inspiration he provided to those around him. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the New Orleans Saints or simply a lover of football, this episode is a must-watch.