He played college football for the Pacific Tigers and was selected in the sixth round of the 1952 NFL draft.

After retiring from playing, he was the offensive line coach for the Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles and the St. Louis Cardinals.

As a senior, he was a part of an undefeated team and received All-Contra Costa County honors in football, while also winning a shot put championship.

[5] Putnam was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1960 NFL Expansion Draft and became the first starter at left guard in franchise history.

[8] The Professional Football Researchers Association named Putnam to the PRFA Hall of Very Good Class of 2016.