Adonai Mitchell – Family Man

Many football players publicly share their love for their families throughout their careers as college athletes. However, it is relatively uncommon that they have children to share love for during this time in their lives. Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell differs in this regard, though.

Mitchell’s letter to his daughter

The Longhorn took it upon himself to craft a letter to his daughter, Icylinn this past January. Although he is aware she can’t read it yet, he wants her to read it one day and know that his decision to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft would change both of their lives.

Mitchell detailed his time at Georgia, saying he deeply appreciates Coach Kirby Smart. He even compares him to the kind of teacher his daughter might have one day who continually puts his/her students first.

The 21-year-old also talks about why he moved to Texas, which was to be closer to his daughter. He discusses all he is grateful for there, as well.

“By far the thing I’m most grateful for about this past year is our time together,” Mitchell says. “Being able to see you grow and learn. Seeing how much we have in common. Leaving UGA was probably the toughest decision of my life, but I know it was the right one because of the special bond we share today. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” 

“This is a time in my life I’m always going to treasure. Honestly, thinking about all the places I’ve been and things I’ve gotten to do is almost overwhelming. I’m just so grateful for it all.” 

“And now, I’m most excited about what’s next — for both of us.”

“Love, Dad,” the wide receiver wrote, ending his letter.

Mitchell’s transfer back home

Mitchell is originally from Missouri City, Texas. So, although Georgia was a good temporary fit for him, moving closer to his daughter and his family made the move so much better.

“That’s honestly been the best part,” said Mitchell when asked about coming home to family.  “When I was away, you know, I didn’t get that. I didn’t get that time with my mom. I didn’t get that time with my family, and most of all, my daughter.”

Mitchell’s father, Norman, said he struggled with leaving Georgia. This was not only because he was leaving a chance to win his third consecutive national championship, but he was also leaving behind players whom he grew very close with during his time as a Bulldog.

“Of course he loved it in Georgia,” Norman Mitchell. “They were brothers. Arm in arm,” AP News writes.

Norman said that he raised his son to care about his responsibilities as a father, though, and he is very proud of his son today, AP News added.

At the end of the day, Mitchell ultimately decided that being closer to his family was more important than anything. By transferring to Texas, he was 900 miles closer to them, AP News additionally stated.

With only a few weeks left until the draft, Mitchell appears to have a bright future ahead. The wide receiver has talked to the Dallas Cowboys, which is most likely his first choice of teams. Wherever he lands, though, he is likely to stay loyal to his family.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.