MyCole Pruitt Bio
MyCole Pruitt (born March 24, 1992) is an American professional football tight end currently playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Southern Illinois Salukis, where he earned recognition as a two-time consensus All-American. Pruitt was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Early Life and Background
MyCole Pruitt was born to Colette Bonds and Carlos Pruitt on March 24, 1992, in South Bend, Indiana. He grew up in Kirkwood, Missouri, where he attended Kirkwood High School. During his time at Kirkwood High School, Pruitt excelled in football, earning accolades as a three-time All-Conference defensive end and a first-team All-Conference tight end in 2009. He also participated in basketball, volleyball, and track and field, showcasing his athletic versatility. Pruitt was a four-year honor roll student, indicating his dedication to both academics and sports.
After high school, Pruitt continued his education and football career at Southern Illinois University, where he played for the Southern Illinois Salukis football team from 2010 to 2014. He was redshirted during his freshman year but quickly made an impact on the team, earning recognition as a standout player in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC).
Path to American Football
Pruitt’s college career at Southern Illinois was marked by significant achievements. He was named a consensus NCAA Division I Football Championship (FCS) All-American during his junior and senior years. Pruitt finished his college career as the MVFC record holder in career receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns among tight ends. He graduated in December 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology.
Following his impressive college career, Pruitt entered the 2015 NFL Draft, where he was regarded as one of the top tight end prospects. His performance at the NFL Scouting Combine further solidified his status, as he recorded the best 40-yard dash time among tight ends, along with impressive vertical and broad jump measurements. This led to his selection by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round of the draft.
MyCole Pruitt Career
Early Career (2015–2016)
Pruitt began his professional career with the Minnesota Vikings, signing a four-year contract that included a guaranteed signing bonus. During his rookie season, he faced challenges in securing playing time but made notable contributions when called upon. He recorded his first NFL catch in Week 7 against the Detroit Lions and demonstrated his versatility by contributing as a blocker.
After spending part of the 2016 season with the Vikings, Pruitt was signed by the Chicago Bears but was released shortly thereafter. He then had brief stints with the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans, where he continued to develop his skills as a tight end.
Breakthrough (2018–2020)
Pruitt’s breakthrough came when he signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2018. He made an immediate impact, catching his first NFL touchdown in a game against the Washington Redskins. Over the next few seasons, he established himself as a reliable target for the Titans, recording career-high statistics in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. His contributions were crucial to the Titans’ offensive success during this period.
In 2021, Pruitt had a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers before returning to the Titans. Unfortunately, he suffered a significant ankle injury that required surgery, but he bounced back to continue his career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, MyCole Pruitt has been recognized for his achievements on the field, including being named a two-time consensus All-American during his college years. His professional career has seen him play for multiple teams, showcasing his resilience and adaptability in the competitive landscape of the NFL.
MyCole Pruitt Award Nominations
MyCole Pruitt has received several accolades throughout his football career, particularly during his time at Southern Illinois, where he was recognized as a consensus All-American and earned multiple All-MVFC selections.
MyCole Pruitt Awards Won
Pruitt’s notable achievements include being a two-time consensus All-American and winning the CFPA Tight End of the Year award in both 2013 and 2014. He was also a three-time first-team All-MVFC selection, highlighting his exceptional performance in college football.
MyCole Pruitt Family
MyCole Pruitt was born to Carlos Pruitt and Colette Bonds. Details about his family life beyond his parents are not publicly available.
Personal Life
Information regarding MyCole Pruitt’s personal life, including marital status and children, is not publicly disclosed. He remains focused on his professional football career as he continues to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers.