By Cam Inman
The Mercury News
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Dante Pettis’ big-play ability as a punt returner and wide receiver prompted the San Francisco 49ers to trade up in Friday’s second round and draft him No. 44 overall.
Pettis (6-foot-1, 186 pounds) returned a NCAA record nine punts for touchdowns at Washington, earning him second-team AP All-America honors.
“As a punt returner, I’d like to continue doing that, and if I need to do kick returns, I’m open to that as well,” Pettis said. “I’m happy to do a lot of different things.”
He can also add to a wide receiver corps that returns its three starters from last season — Pierre Garcon, Marquise Goodwin and Trent Taylor, the latter of whom averaged 9.4 yards as a rookie punt returner.
To move up, the 49ers gave up their second-round slot (No. 59) and a third-round pick (No. 74), while Washington also sent a fifth-round choice (No. 142).
Pettis’ father, Gary, was a five-time Gold Glove center fielder and currently serves as the Houston Astros third-base coach. The Astros just started their home game against the A’s when the 49ers made their pick.
“It was awesome growing up,” Dante Pettis said. “I’ve been around pro sports my whole life. Whether it’s baseball or football, they all go about their business the same. I’m excited to be here now.”
His receiving capabilities showed through in a win over Oregon State last fall, when he made a career-high 12 catches for 105 yards and three touchdowns.
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