Aggie Pride: Karon Prunty Drafted by New England Patriots in Fifth Round

The North Carolina A&T pipeline to the NFL continues to flow strong as former Aggies star defensive back Karon Prunty was selected by the New England Patriots in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. The reigning AFC champions are adding a proven playmaker who made his mark in Greensboro.

Prunty's journey to professional football took him through multiple programs, but it was at A&T where he truly emerged as a star. After spending two seasons at the University of Kansas, Prunty transferred to the Aggies in 2022, joining the program during its final season in the Big South Conference.

His impact was immediate and impressive. In that first season, Prunty earned All-Big South First Team honors after leading the conference with four interceptions. He also contributed 30 total tackles and three pass breakups, establishing himself as one of the premier defensive backs in the conference.

Continued Excellence in the CAA

When North Carolina A&T transitioned to the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA), Prunty maintained his high level of play.

• 70 total tackles
• 4.5 tackles for loss
• 2.0 sacks
• 1 interception
• 9 pass breakups

Following his successful tenure at A&T, Prunty spent this past season at Wake Forest, where he added to his resume with an All-ACC Third Team selection. In his lone season with the Demon Deacons, he recorded 40 total tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sacks, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His eight pass breakups ranked among the top Wake Forest defenders.

Building on Recent Success

Prunty's selection continues a promising trend for the Aggies program. Former North Carolina A&T running back Bhayshul Tuten was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the fourth round last year, going on to contribute 307 rushing yards and five touchdowns as a rookie.

As Prunty heads to New England to begin his professional career, he carries with him the foundation built during his breakout years in Greensboro, representing the continued excellence of HBCU football on the national stage.

Originally reported by HBCU Sports.