A Detroit native and former University of Michigan linebacker has been revealed as the “Golden Bachelor” for the show’s second season.

Mel Owens, 66, played football for the University of Michigan from 1977 to 1980 and was selected by the Los Angeles Rams as the ninth overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft.

FILE- Los Angeles Rams Linebacker Mel Owens scrambles to tackle San Francisco 49ers Wide Receiver Freddie Solomon during game action, October 27, 1985 in Anaheim, California. ((Photo by Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images))

After he retired from playing football, Owens moved to Orange County, California, and pursued a career in law, specializing in sports-related injuries, according to a release.

During that time, he met his first love, and they had two sons.

“While life took an unexpected turn with the passing of his father and the end of his marriage, Owens channeled his energy into being the best father he could be, focusing on raising his sons and coaching their extracurricular sports teams,” according to the release.

Now, Owens is “ready to rediscover a love rooted in the simple joys of companionship.”

“As the Golden Bachelor, he’s eager to meet someone who shares this vision and finally find that perfect teammate he’s been waiting for in his golden years,” the release said.

A premiere date will be announced at a later time, according to the release.

The first season of “The Golden Bachelor” premiered in September 2023, with Gerry Turner as the lead.

According to the release, “The Golden Bachelor” had an average of 10.4 million views in its first 35 days across platforms, which was the strongest average for any ABC unscripted series since the 2019-2020 season of “The Bachelor.”

After that, “The Golden Bachelorette” was released in September 2024, featuring Joan Vassos.