James Mitchell, a former tight end for the Carolina Panthers, is set to continue his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys. The team announced on Thursday that Mitchell has officially signed with their practice squad, marking a new chapter for the 27-year-old player.
Mitchell's journey to the Cowboys comes after he was released by the Panthers during the recent cutdown to the initial 53-man roster. His departure from Carolina was part of a broader roster adjustment as teams finalize their lineups ahead of the regular season.
A native of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, Mitchell was drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. During his time with the Lions, he participated in 30 games, making one start and recording 13 receptions for a total of 141 yards and one touchdown. His contributions were notable, particularly as he transitioned from a rookie to a more established player in the league.
After spending a significant portion of the 2024 season on the practice squad in Detroit, Mitchell signed a reserve/future contract with the Panthers in January 2025. In his time with Carolina, he played in five games, where he managed to make three catches for 28 yards. Despite the limited opportunities, Mitchell's versatility and experience in the league have kept him on the radar of NFL teams.
Mitchell’s signing with the Cowboys is particularly interesting as he becomes the second former Panthers player to join Dallas' practice squad this week, following defensive lineman Elijah Garcia. This trend highlights the Cowboys' strategy of bringing in players with prior experience in the league, potentially to bolster their depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.
As the NFL season approaches, teams are looking to solidify their rosters, and Mitchell's addition to the Cowboys' practice squad provides him with another opportunity to showcase his skills. With the Cowboys aiming for a strong performance this season, having experienced players like Mitchell on the practice squad could prove beneficial for their overall depth and strategy.
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