A case can be made that Julius "Julio" Pruitt is the best receiver in Ouachita football history.
From 2005-08, Pruitt was a two-time All-Gulf South Conference selection, highlighted by first team honors in his senior season of 2008, when he set school records in receiving yards (1,116) and receiving touchdowns (11), both of which are still standing. In the career record book, Pruitt is second all-time at Ouachita in receiving yards (2,406), second in receptions (171), and third in touchdowns (24).
The Newport, Arkansas native also earned first team all-region status in 2008 and was selected as Ouachita's MVP by the Little Rock Touchdown Club.
In 2009, Pruitt began his career in professional football as a member of the practice squad for the NFL's Miami Dolphins. He was promoted to the active roster in 2011 and played through 2013.
Pruitt's decision to pursue a career in the NFL put his undergraduate degree on hold, but with the NFLPA's Trust Scholarship program, he was able to finish his bachelor's degree in kinesiology in 2021 while serving as an assistant coach with the Tigers.
"The different ways that Julio has contributed to this university and specifically to the football program are too many to count," said Ouachita football coachÂ
Todd Knight. "Seeing him come into our program, and watching him develop in all phases was incredible, especially the way it led to an opportunity to play in the NFL. His records speak for themselves, but his legacy for this program speaks to the intangibles like his impeccable character, his great work ethic, and his loving personality. He is a great role model for our players now, and a great example for all of us."
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