Lance Mehl

Lance Alan Mehl (born February 14, 1958 in Bellaire, Ohio) is a former professional American football player. He played 8 seasons for the New York Jets of the National Football League from 1980-1987. He was an All-American at Penn State University.

He was selected by the Jets in the 3rd round (#69 overall) of the 1980 NFL Draft. He was named to the Pro Bowl in (1985).

Mehl was the leading tackler for the unbeaten 1978 Nittany Lion team. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts Education from Penn State University in 1980.

Mehl was a three-sport team captain at Bellaire High School in Bellaire, Ohio in football, baseball, and basketball. Today, Mehl works with troubled youth in hopes of leading them away from a discouraging future. He is the father of four sons: Lance, Lucas, Logan, and Layne. Lance's mother was the sister of Charels Meadows and William Meadows, both now dead. they all grew up in south eastern Ohio.

According to Lance Mehl's 1984 Topps football card #153 Lance was the Jets leading interceptor in 1983. Lance is perhaps the club's most consistent defensive player. Recorded 10 tackles in 44-17 playoff win at Cincinnati Jan-9th-1983 As a bit of "Did You Know" the card said "Lance once worked in the coal mines of Ohio"

Lance Mehl wore the number #56 while playing for the New York Jets

In 2012, Lance Mehl testified on behalf of former coach Jerry Sandusky calling him, "A class act". Sandusky was later found guilty of 45 felony charges related to child rape and child endangerment