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San Francisco 49ers: Dante Pettis could be of critical importance

By Maxwell Ogden

SEATTLE, WA - NOVEMBER 25: Wide receiver Dante Pettis #8 of the Washington Huskies rushes against the Washington State Cougars at Husky Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - NOVEMBER 25: Wide receiver Dante Pettis #8 of the Washington Huskies rushes against the Washington State Cougars at Husky Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /
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The San Francisco 49ers are attempting to build around Jimmy Garoppolo. 2018 NFL Draft pick Dante Pettis could play a critical role in that process.

The San Francisco 49ers have made Jimmy Garoppolo one of the highest paid quarterbacks in NFL history. Some have debated whether or not the small sample size of success justifies the deal, but Garoppolo has been invested in as the new franchise player.

Thankfully for Garoppolo, the 49ers have already made significant progress towards building a solid supporting cast for their new star.

San Francisco selected offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft—a reach in some eyes, but a move that certainly addresses a team need. Shortly thereafter, the 49ers selected a player who can best be described as explosive.

With the 44th overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected Washington Huskies wide receiver Dante Pettis.

Pettis is one of the shiftiest playmakers in this draft class, which should be of significant appeal to Garoppolo.

Standing at just under 6’1″ with adequate measurements in arm length and hand size, Pettis is an easily identifiable target. He may not be a true No. 1 wide receiver, but he’s an explosive player who can help Garoppolo add an element of unpredictability to the offense.

Pettis recorded 22 receiving touchdowns between his junior and senior seasons, and is one of the best route runners in this class.

With quick and active feet, impressive body control, and good vision as a runner, Pettis could be of great value as soon as his rookie season.

What makes Pettis so intriguing is that his value ranges beyond the receiving game. He’s one of the most dynamic return men in this class, and has a legitimate stake to the claim of being the best in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Pettis finished his four-year collegiate career with nine punts returned for touchdowns, including the four he recorded in 2017 alone.

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With a player who can move the chains, find the end zone, and give his team great field position, the San Francisco 49ers found a tremendous talent in Dante Pettis.