Johnny Mitchell Made an Impression in His Short Career
Husker fans fell in love with Mitchell in 1991 as he helped lead Nebraska to their first Big 8 title since 1988. While some questioned his decision to leave early for the pros his selection in the middle of the first round of the NFL draft vindicated him. As much as fans missed him, in hindsight it was the right call.
Mitchell was only a sophomore when he left. But in his two seasons on the field he made a mark. He lead the Huskers in receiving touchdowns in 1990 with 7 on only 11 catches. He earned all-conference honors for his contributions that year. In 1991, he hauled in a team-high 31 catches and five touchdowns and again was named all-conference as well as third team All-American by the Associated Press.
Imagine if he’d hung around through the 1993 season. Maybe the Huskers would have captured a fourth national title in the 1990’s. And imagine what he might do under Bill Callahan with Sam Keller throwing him the ball. The Huskers have had good tight ends, even great ones. But it will take a pretty special one to make us forget Mitchell. He may not have hung around long, but he sure made the most of his time in Lincoln.
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