Breaking News: Notable Detroit Lions Quarterbacks Scott Mitchell and Dave Krieg Returning to the Spotlight
In a surprising turn of events, former Detroit Lions quarterbacks Scott Mitchell and Dave Krieg have been named to the exclusive “Returning List” by the Lions organization for a special event set to take place this offseason. The two quarterbacks, who played pivotal roles for the team during the 1990s and early 2000s, will return for an event celebrating the history of Lions football and honoring former players who left their mark on the franchise.
This announcement has stirred excitement among Lions fans and football enthusiasts alike, bringing two faces from the past back into the limelight. Let’s take a deeper dive into the careers of Scott Mitchell and Dave Krieg, and explore what their return means for the Detroit Lions’ fanbase.
Scott Mitchell: A Quarterback Who Showed Promise But Fell Short of Expectations
Scott Mitchell’s tenure as Detroit Lions quarterback was marked by flashes of brilliance that left many fans hopeful for long-term success, but also marred by inconsistency that ultimately prevented him from becoming the franchise quarterback many expected him to be.
Background and Career with the Lions
Mitchell joined the Lions in 1994 as part of a trade with the Miami Dolphins, where he had served as a backup to Hall of Famer Dan Marino. When Mitchell took over as the starter in Detroit, the team was looking for a quarterback to help take them to the next level. In his first season as a starter, Mitchell had a breakout year, throwing for 4,338 yards and 32 touchdowns — numbers that would make any quarterback envious. His performance in 1995 earned him a Pro Bowl selection, and many believed that the Lions had found the quarterback of the future.
Under Mitchell’s leadership, the Lions had one of their most successful seasons in franchise history, finishing with a 10-6 record and reaching the playoffs. However, the Lions were eliminated by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round, and that would be the high point of Mitchell’s career in Detroit.
Despite his strong numbers in 1995, Mitchell’s inconsistency as a quarterback became apparent in the following seasons. In 1996, he threw for 3,484 yards but struggled with turnovers, and his performance in 1997 was even more erratic. Injuries, combined with the inability to replicate his earlier success, led to Mitchell losing his starting role.
After four seasons with Detroit, Mitchell left the Lions in 1998 and played for the Cincinnati Bengals, where he enjoyed a brief but more consistent run. His time with the Lions remains a curious “what could have been” in Detroit sports history.
What’s Next for Mitchell?
Mitchell’s return to the spotlight for this upcoming event is a chance for fans to revisit the promise of the mid-1990s Lions. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on how the quarterback position has been an area of instability for the team, especially during the years when Mitchell was under center. The organization likely wants to honor Mitchell for the high point of his career, which came during a time when the Lions were contenders in the NFC and regularly appeared in the postseason.
Dave Krieg: The Veteran Presence in the Lions’ Quarterback Room
Dave Krieg was another quarterback who had a brief but noteworthy stay in Detroit, though his legacy with the team was more about leadership and experience than franchise-changing production. Krieg, a former Pro Bowler with the Seattle Seahawks, joined the Lions in 1994 as a free agent, bringing with him 16 years of NFL experience. He was expected to provide a steady hand to a team that had struggled to find consistency at the quarterback position.
Background and Career with the Lions
Krieg had an illustrious career prior to his stint with the Lions, most notably with the Seahawks, where he became the team’s all-time passing leader and was a three-time Pro Bowler. His strong leadership and ability to perform under pressure made him a respected figure in the NFL. By the time he joined the Lions, however, he was near the end of his playing days.
In Detroit, Krieg was primarily brought in as a mentor to Scott Mitchell, helping to guide the younger quarterback and provide depth at the position. Krieg played in 1994 and 1995, backing up Mitchell and occasionally filling in during games when Mitchell was injured or struggling. His role, while not that of a starter, was crucial in providing stability during turbulent times for the team.
Though Krieg never started a full season for the Lions, his veteran presence helped keep the quarterback room functional, and he was respected by his teammates for his professionalism and work ethic. Krieg’s final season with the Lions was 1995, after which he retired from the NFL, concluding a solid and respected career.
What’s Next for Krieg?
Krieg’s return is a bit of a nostalgia trip for Lions fans, particularly those who remember the mid-1990s teams. He may not have been a headline grabber like Mitchell, but Krieg’s role as a mentor and his steady hand in the quarterback room were crucial to the Lions’ efforts to remain competitive. His return to the spotlight at this special event will likely serve as a tribute to his leadership and his role in helping the Lions maintain their competitive edge during an important period in franchise history.
Why the Return of Mitchell and Krieg Matters
The Detroit Lions have long struggled to find stability at the quarterback position, which has been a major factor in their inability to consistently compete for championships. The early 1990s were a time of hope for the franchise, with a promising young quarterback in Mitchell and a respected veteran in Krieg. Despite their individual talents and the potential they showed during their brief time in Detroit, neither quarterback was able to help the Lions take that next step to Super Bowl contention.
Their return for this special event speaks to a broader effort by the Lions to acknowledge the history of the team, especially during times when they were competitive and on the cusp of greatness. The Lions have had many ups and downs, but it’s important to remember and honor the players who contributed to the franchise’s success, even if that success didn’t result in championships.
For fans of the team, this event serves as a reminder of what could have been, and a celebration of players who helped shape the Lions’ football legacy. Scott Mitchell and Dave Krieg may not have been the quarterbacks to deliver a Super Bowl title to Detroit, but their contributions are part of the larger tapestry of Lions football. It’s an opportunity for fans to connect with the past and reflect on the players who left an impact on the field, regardless of the ultimate outcomes.
Conclusion: A Day for Reflection and Gratitude
The return of Scott Mitchell and Dave Krieg to the Detroit Lions’ “Returning List” is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s a celebration of the efforts, the highs and lows, and the unsung contributions that these quarterbacks made to a franchise that, despite its struggles, remains close to the hearts of its fans. As the Lions continue to rebuild and strive for success in the modern NFL, it’s important to recognize the contributions of players like Mitchell and Krieg, who helped lay the foundation for the future — even if that future has yet to yield a championship. This event promises to be a nostalgic look back at a time when the Lions were a legitimate playoff team, and a chance to honor two quarterbacks who tried, and sometimes came close, to leading them to glory.
Leave a Reply