Prepped at Katy (Texas) High, where he threw 37 touchdowns and only four interceptions as a senior en route to an undefeated state championship season. Began his college career at SMU and started all 19 games in which he played over two seasons — completed 236-of-410 attempts (57.6 percent) for 2,865 yards with 24 touchdowns and 23 interceptions in 2008 (12 games); and passed 149-266-1,725-12-10 (56.0) in ’09 (nine games). After he suffered a separation and slight labrum tear in his left (non-throwing) shoulder against Houston, ceded the job to Kyle Padron. Transferred to Eastern Washington and made an immediate impact — started 14-of-15 games for the I-AA national champions and broke school records for attempts, completions and touchdowns by amassing 300-505-3,496-37-15 (59.4), including Most Outstanding Player accolades in the title game. Did not start the second game of the season against Central Washington. Won the Payton Award (top I-AA player) in ’11 when he led the country in passing yards (also broke school record) and touchdown passes, throwing 318-503-4,009-33-13 (63.2) in 11 starts. Two-time team captain. Had a 23-21 record in 44 career starts.

An SMU transfer, Mitchell was highly productive for two years at an elite I-AA program, capturing a national championship and a Payton Award (top I-AA player). Quick, compact release. Nice feet to roll the pocket and throw on the move or escape the rush. Shows poise and anticipation. Undersized with merely functional arm strength — cannot drill velocity throws on a line. Operated mostly out of the gun in a fairly simple spread offense, but is smart and experienced, having started right away at both SMU at EWU. Athletic ability, production and competitiveness give him a chance to stick as a dink-and-dunk clipboard holder.