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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Mitchell, Detroit Agree On Deal Worth $21 Million

Compiled From Wire Services

Quarterback Scott Mitchell re-signed Wednesday with the Detroit Lions, agreeing to a four-year deal believed to be worth $21 million, including an $8 million signing bonus.

“We’re just delighted to have Scott here,” coach Bobby Ross said at a news conference. “This program is interested in taking it to the next level, and I think Scott Mitchell is the guy to take us there.”

Mitchell’s first three seasons with Detroit, after signing in 1994, were filled with turmoil surrounding recently fired coach Wayne Fontes.

He sees the Lions differently under Ross.

“I like what I see and hear,” Mitchell said. “And he’s been where I want to be, and that’s the Super Bowl.”

Mitchell said his decision to remain with the Lions was influenced by his recent reconciliation with his wife Kim, who accompanied him to the Silverdome news conference.

In 1995, Mitchell rewrote the Lions’ record books, throwing for 4,338 yards and 32 touchdowns with 12 interceptions.

But things fell apart in 1996. Mitchell passed for only 2,917 yards and his 17 touchdowns were matched by an equal number of interceptions. The team fell to 5-11, missing the playoffs, and Fontes was replaced by Ross.

The New York Jets will have to wait a few days to take advantage of Bill Parcells’ advice.

NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue has acknowledged Patriots owner Bob Kraft’s request to review whether Parcells can work for the Jets as a “consultant.” He will take a couple of days before rendering a decision.

That would mean Parcells - whom Tagliabue ruled last week is contractually prohibited from serving as coach or in a “comparable position” with any NFL team except the Patriots this season unless Kraft is given satisfactory compensation - cannot go on the Jets’ payroll immediately.

Chris Slade, the linebacker who probably would have left New England if Parcells stayed, signed a five-year contract to remain with the Patriots.

Chris Palmer, who tutored Drew Bledsoe as quarterbacks coach of the Patriots, was hired as offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars.