A Tribute to a True Icon
“The Underdog” explores the extraordinary journey of Sam Mills — a man who defied every expectation, from being considered “too small” for the NFL to becoming a beloved defensive leader and Hall of Famer. The documentary traces Mills’ path from his humble beginnings in New Jersey, through his dominant years in the USFL and with the New Orleans Saints, and ultimately to his legendary run with the Carolina Panthers, where his mantra “Keep Pounding” became the soul of the franchise.
Mills passed away in 2005 after a courageous battle with cancer, but his legacy continues to inspire athletes, coaches, and fans across generations.
“Sam wasn’t just a player — he was the heartbeat of this organization,” said former Panthers head coach John Fox, one of several voices featured in the documentary. “And now, the world will get to see just how special he really was.”
Inside the Film
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Ava Serrano, the documentary features never-before-seen footage, personal interviews with Mills’ family, teammates, and coaches, as well as emotional reflections from NFL legends such as Drew Brees, Steve Smith Sr., Sean Payton, and Ron Rivera. The film also dives deep into Mills’ post-playing years as a coach and his public battle with cancer — a fight that showcased his unrelenting spirit.
Netflix describes “The Underdog” as “a story of grit, heart, and a legacy that goes far beyond football.”
Fan and League Reactions
News of the release date has sparked overwhelming excitement and emotion across social media:
-
Carolina Panthers official Twitter:
“His story changed our franchise. His courage changed lives. The Underdog — July 15. We’re ready. #KeepPounding”
-
NFL Network analyst and former teammate Rickey Jackson:
“Sam was the most determined man I ever knew. Can’t wait for the world to see the full story.”
-
NFL Films President Keith Cossrow:
“This is one of the most powerful projects we’ve seen in years. A reminder that greatness has nothing to do with size — and everything to do with heart.”
Legacy Lives On
The documentary arrives just three years after Mills was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022, an honor fans and former players had long campaigned for. His “Keep Pounding” motto remains the emotional rallying cry for the Panthers organization, echoed before every game and engraved on the walls of Bank of America Stadium.
“I may be 5’9″, but I stand tall,” Mills once said in a famous locker room speech, featured in the film’s trailer. “Because I believe in what I fight for.”
“The Underdog” premieres July 15 on Netflix, and promises to be more than just a sports documentary — it’s a celebration of resilience, character, and the lasting power of belief.
