DETROIT – When Scott Mitchell played for the Detroit Lions in the mid 90's, he weighed about 240 pounds. In 2014, that is no longer the case.
Mitchell, who played quarterback for the Lions from 1994-1998, is among the latest group of contestants on NBC's weight-loss show "The Biggest Loser." His bio reads:
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"Scott Mitchell was a standout athlete growing up, excelling in football and setting the course for his impressive career in the NFL. He was born in Salt Lake City and grew up in Springville, Utah with three older sisters. After attending the University of Utah, Mitchell played 12 seasons in the NFL for the Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens. He was drafted in the fourth round by the Dolphins and backed up Hall of Famer Dan Marino. In 2010, Mitchell was inducted into the University of Utah Hall of Fame. His biggest motivation for going on the show was seeing his dad die of obesity-related causes early this year and knowing he could be headed down the same path if he doesn't change his life. Now 46 years old and 366 pounds, Mitchell has sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Weight has been an issue since age 35 due to a busy life and poor diet. With five kids ranging in age from 11 to 21, he wants to be there for his family and is ready to embrace a healthy lifestyle. When he loses the weight, he says he wants to look amazing in clothes and be physically active."
Mitchell isn't the only former Detroit Lions player in this season's group. Damian Woody, who played for the Lions from 2004-2006, is also in the group. He's listed at 388 pounds, only about 50 pounds off from his playing weight.
"The Biggest Loser" premieres Sept. 11 on NBC.