Keaton Mitchell, the undrafted rookie running back for the Baltimore Ravens, scored his first career touchdown in the NFL on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. Mitchell, who was activated from the injured reserve list in Week 5, showed his explosive speed and agility on a 75-yard run in the third quarter, breaking multiple tackles and outrunning the defense to the end zone. The touchdown gave the Ravens a 24-17 lead and sparked a comeback victory for the team.

Mitchell, who played college football at East Carolina University, was a standout performer in the American Athletic Conference, leading the nation in runs of more than 10 yards in 2022. He ran for over 3,000 yards and 18 touchdowns in his two seasons with the Pirates, earning first-team all-conference honors twice and an honorable mention All-American recognition by Pro Football Focus. He also impressed scouts at the NFL combine with his 4.37 40-yard dash and his 1.48 10-yard split, which were among the best at his position.

Despite his impressive resume, Mitchell went undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft and signed with the Ravens as a free agent. He suffered a shoulder injury in the preseason and was placed on the injured reserve list, missing the first four games of the season. He made his debut in Week 5 against the Denver Broncos, rushing for 63 yards on four carries. He has since become a key part of the Ravens’ rushing attack, which ranks first in the league in yards per game.

Mitchell’s first career touchdown was a memorable moment for him and his family, especially his father, Anthony Mitchell, who also played for the Ravens and won a Super Bowl with them in 2001. Anthony Mitchell is best known for his 90-yard blocked field goal return for a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans in the AFC divisional playoffs that year, which helped the Ravens advance to the AFC Championship Game. Keaton Mitchell said he was inspired by his father’s play and wanted to make him proud.

“I always watched that play growing up and I wanted to do something like that for him,” Mitchell said after the game. “He’s been my biggest supporter and my role model. I’m just glad I could score a touchdown for him and for the team.”

Mitchell’s touchdown was also a highlight for the Ravens, who improved to 6-2 with the win over the Bengals and maintained their lead in the AFC North. Mitchell said he was grateful for the opportunity to play for the Ravens and contribute to their success.

“I’m just thankful for the Ravens for giving me a chance and believing in me,” Mitchell said. “I’m happy to be a part of this team and this offense. We have a lot of great players and coaches here and we’re just trying to get better every week and win games.”