Dante Pettis is an American football wide receiver and return specialist, born October 23, 1995. He played collegiately at Washington, where he became a consensus first-team All-American in 2017 and established an NCAA career record with nine punt-return touchdowns. Washington also recognized him as a first-team All-Pac-12 selection at both wide receiver and return specialist that season.
The San Francisco 49ers selected Pettis in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, 44th overall. His NFL work has included receiver and return duties with San Francisco, the New York Giants, Chicago, and New Orleans. Buffalo signed him to a one-year deal on July 30, 2026, but he was subsequently listed among the Bills’ roster cuts before the regular season. As of September 14, 2026, the NFL’s player directory lists Dante Pettis as an unrestricted free agent rather than on an active roster. His profile is built around route running, smooth hands and return ability; pre-draft NFL analysis projected that he could create separation at multiple levels and contribute from the slot.
Jersey number
17
Position
WR
Birth date
10/23/1995
College
Washington
Dante Pettis Questions & Answers
Is Dante Pettis currently on an NFL team?
As of September 14, 2026, Dante Pettis is listed by the NFL as an unrestricted free agent. Buffalo signed him on July 30, 2026, and he later appeared on the Bills’ 2026 roster-cuts tracker.
What position and height does Dante Pettis play?
Pettis is a wide receiver who has also served as a punt and kick returner. Team and draft materials have listed him at 6-foot-1; his 2018 draft measurements listed him at 6-foot-0 1/2 and 186 pounds.
When was Dante Pettis born?
Dante Pettis was born October 23, 1995.
Where did Dante Pettis attend college?
Pettis played college football at the University of Washington.
What was Dante Pettis’ draft pick?
The San Francisco 49ers selected Pettis with the 44th overall selection in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
What made Pettis notable at Washington?
Pettis was an accomplished receiver and returner for the Huskies. His nine career punt-return touchdowns set the NCAA career record, and he earned consensus first-team All-America recognition in 2017.
What is Dante Pettis’ playing style?
Pettis has been valued for polished route running, the ability to uncover at different levels of the field, dependable pass-catching traits and experience as a return specialist. NFL pre-draft analysis suggested his skill set could translate well to slot work as well as receiver depth duties.
