The San Francisco 49ers wrapped up their second of two joint practices with the Houston Texans Thursday, and wide receiver Dante Pettis continued his exceptional training camp.
How many times have you heard this line before — San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Dante Pettis was a standout during training camp practice.
The Niners wrapped up their second of two joint practices with the Houston Texans Thursday in advance of both teams’ second preseason game to be held this Saturday at NRG Stadium. Like Wednesday, the weather was both hot and humid. Thankfully, however, this didn’t lead to any flaring of tempers, as it did between 49ers cornerback Jimmie Ward and Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins Wednesday.
Pettis, who took some impressive batting practice with the Houston Astros two days before, didn’t appear bothered by the heat either.
According to 49ers.com’s Joe Fann, Pettis was exceptional during one-on-one drills and managed to haul in a deep pass down the sideline from quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo:
Dante Pettis having another really strong practice:
— Joe Fann (@Joe_Fann) August 16, 2018
Dominated 1-on-1s.
Got wide open deep down the middle earlier but was underthrown by Beathard.
Just caught a long pass down the left sideline from Garoppolo.
Apparently Hopkins thinks highly of Pettis too:
DeAndre Hopkins just slapped hands with Dante Pettis and gave him some love.
— Joe Fann (@Joe_Fann) August 16, 2018
“I like your game, man. I like your game,” Hopkins said. #respect
For those who may have thought Pettis was merely going to be a slot receiver for San Francisco, think again. Pettis’ ability to work well up against the sideline is yet another indication how head coach Kyle Shanahan plans to use him this upcoming season.
While Pettis had just one grab during the Niners’ exhibition opener against the Dallas Cowboys last week, he’s been able to flash some pretty impressive abilities throughout 49ers training camp.
Going up against what looks to be a strong Houston defense this season is yet only another indication of what the rookie wideout from Washington can offer for San Francisco.
Here’s what else stood out from the Niners’ practice on Aug. 16.