Brad Van Pelt (1951–2009) was an Owosso-born athlete who excelled at Michigan State before a fourteen-year NFL career. He earned seven varsity letters across football, basketball, and baseball at MSU.[1][2]
Michigan State
Van Pelt was a football All-American in 1971 and 1972. In 1972, he became the first defensive back to receive the Maxwell Award as the nation’s leading college football player.[2]
Professional career
The New York Giants selected him in the second round of the 1973 NFL draft. He earned five consecutive Pro Bowl selections, from 1976 through 1980. MSU inducted him into its Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000.[1][2]
Family and local remembrance
His son Bradlee Van Pelt also played college and professional football. MSU’s contemporary obituary records Brad’s death on February 17, 2009, and a memorial service held at Owosso High School.[1]
References
- 1. MSU Football Legend Brad Van Pelt Passes Away at Age 57 ↗. Michigan State University Athletics. Accessed October 27, 2026.
- 2. Brad Van Pelt — Hall of Fame ↗. Michigan State University Athletics. Accessed October 27, 2026.