College Football is the clear and only pipeline to the NFL. It is filled with thousands of talented young men that dream of playing at the next level. Only 1.5% of those players become pro football players. Every draft has positions that are deeper than others. Some believe this is a quarterback class and others believe it is a running back class. Let’s not forget about those “DIVAS” the pretty boy receivers. They are loaded with depth and talent and I would like to shine the light on some of these pass catchers. Here is my scouting report!!
Dante Pettis, Wide receiver, UW
Height-Weight: 6’1 195 lbs.
Film reviewed: Washington St (2016), Oregon (2016), and Arizona St (2016)
The Good: Dante has solid size and catch radius for an X receiver. He does a great job mirroring his route and allowing each route/release to look the same. This comes in handy while studying his film because you cannot predict which route he is running. He possesses great stride, and speed allows him to eat up grass vs off coverage. Throughout his college career his hands have improved, which allows him to catch the football away from his body. He is a solid route runner due to playing in a pro-style offense. His special team versatility adds to his overall value. Dante is currently the NCAA record holder for most punt returns in a career (9).
The Bad: First and foremost, HIS QUARTERBACK. Pettis has not received the amount of targets or receptions that he deserves due to Jake Browning, his quarterback. Pettis faces more off coverage than press coverage in college, which raises questions if he can handle physical press coverage at the next level.
Pro Comparison: Will Fuller is the comparison that fits the bill here!! Both are similar in size with Fuller at 6’1 172 and Pettis at 6’1 195lbs. Both players are deep threats with returning ability to add. Fuller was behind Pettis as a route runner coming out of Notre Dame, and both were not great vs press coverage. Like Fuller, I truly believe Pettis can add big play ability on offense and special teams. He is a good number two receiver with number one potential.
References
NCAA. (2017). Estimated probability of competing in professional athletics. Retrieved from http://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/research/estimated-probability-competing-professional-athletics