Sep 6, 2026 · 5 min · 6 segments
In today's episode, we discuss the legendary career of former Cleveland Browns running back Mike Pruitt. A top-10 pick in the 1976 NFL Draft out of Purdue, Pruitt finished his career as the…
Ankit ChughHost
After several visits, he chose Purdue, following the footsteps of another talented ball carrier from Chicago, Otis Armstrong.
Expecting to contribute immediately, Pruitt was humbled when he found himself buried on the depth chart his first year there.
Luckily, his natural abilities earned him meaningful playing time as a sophomore.
Thus, he committed to strengthening himself both physically and mentally, electing to stay in West Lafayette during the offseason to build calluses.
Over the next two years, he developed into one of the best ground threats in the country, finishing his college career with 1,588 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
Despite entering a draft class loaded with talented backs, including Joe Washington, Chuck Muncy, Tony Galbraith, and two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin, Pruitt's unique skill set had not gone unnoticed.
The Cleveland Browns and owner Art Modell were particularly intrigued by the former Boilermaker's 6-foot, 225-pound frame and 4-4 speed.
Coincidentally, Pruitt became the second player with that last name in the backfield, joining versatile star Greg Pruitt.
After several visits, he chose Purdue, following the footsteps of another talented ball carrier from Chicago, Otis Armstrong.
Expecting to contribute immediately, Pruitt was humbled when he found himself buried on the depth chart his first year there.
Luckily, his natural abilities earned him meaningful playing time as a sophomore.
Thus, he committed to strengthening himself both physically and mentally, electing to stay in West Lafayette during the offseason to build calluses.
Over the next two years, he developed into one of the best ground threats in the country, finishing his college career with 1,588 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
Despite entering a draft class loaded with talented backs, including Joe Washington, Chuck Muncy, Tony Galbraith, and two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin, Pruitt's unique skill set had not gone unnoticed.
The Cleveland Browns and owner Art Modell were particularly intrigued by the former Boilermaker's 6-foot, 225-pound frame and 4-4 speed.
Coincidentally, Pruitt became the second player with that last name in the backfield, joining versatile star Greg Pruitt.
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