STORRS, Conn. – UConn's Jackson Mitchell (Ridgefield, Conn.) signed an NFL contract as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers at the conclusion of the NFL Draft on Saturday.

Mitchell, one of the best linebackers in UConn history, took part in this year's Hula Bowl as well as the 99th East-West Shrine Bowl heading into the NFL Draft process.  He ended his senior season this past fall earning All-New England for the third-straight season after wrapping up a standout career. 

The Connecticut native once again led the Husky defense in tackles, racking up 113 total tackles, averaging 9.4 tackles per game to rank 19th in FBS.  He also finished with 7.0 tackles for a loss, 1.0 sacks, a forced fumble, fumble recovery and interception.  On the 2023 season, he had five games with double digit tackles and finished with 19 total over his career. Mitchell ended his career third on the all-time list at UConn in total tackles with 438 over his four seasons.

Mitchell joins teammate Christian Haynes (Bowie, Md.) in reaching their NFL dream this offseason.  Haynes was drafted in the third round on Friday by the Seattle Seahawks.