Former New Orleans Saints linebacker Sam Mills was announced as a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2020. This is huge news considering Mills has been named a semifinalist three times since becoming eligible to enter the Hall of Fame, most recently in Nov. 2019, but this is the first time his candidacy has advanced to the next stage of voting.
Mills spent nine years in New Orleans, starring in the famous “Dome Patrol” defense alongside linebackers Vaughan Johnson, Pat Swilling, and Rickey Jackson, who was voted into the Hall of Fame back in 2010. Mills finished his career with the expansion-team Carolina Panthers, joining their coaching staff after his playing days were over. He died in Charlotte in 2005 of intestinal cancer, and a bronze statue stands in his memory outside the Panthers’ Bank of America Stadium to this day.
Mills’ career stats and impact to both teams he played with speaks for itself. His five Pro Bowl appearances (four with the Saints) also help, as well as his past inductions to the Saints Hall of Fame in 1998 and Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2001. He’ll have his case heard before the Hall of Fame selection committee on Feb. 1, the day before Super Bowl LIV, as part of the 15-strong group of finalists. Only five will make the final cut, and his credentials are as strong as any.
