The Carolina Panthers don’t have a whole lot of representation over in Canton, Ohio. But what they do have, like the man you’re going to read about, packs quite a punch.
Franchise icon Sam Mills was recently named the Panthers’ best Hall of Famer. The 33rd Team senior writer Barry Wilner complied his list of the NFL’s premier 32 reps, and wrote the following of the inspirational linebacker:
Sam Mills was too small and slow to make an NFL impact. Yeah, right. The 5-foot-9 Mills went from Montclair State (it’s in New Jersey) to USFL stardom when the NFL ignored him. That changed in 1986 when he joined New Orleans and was a major factor on the Saints’ defense.
But it was in his last three pro seasons with the Panthers that Mills solidified his Canton candidacy with 331 tackles, six forced fumbles and the kind of leadership that lands you in the Hall of Fame.
Mills was officially (and finally) enshrined into the Hall of Fame last summer, in what was his final year of eligibility. His work for the organization as a player, coach and legendary source of motivation now has him immortalized amongst the game’s very best.
Carolina’s very best in Canton also includes prolific pass rushers Kevin Greene and Reggie White. But with both men spending a combined three seasons in Charlotte, Mills’ impact makes him the clear choice for this relatively young franchise.
