The San Francisco 49ers are reportedly reuniting with former draft pick wide receiver Dante Pettis, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. He's one of nine players who worked out for the team on Tuesday, and the receiver is expected to join the practice squad.
Reunion! The #49ers are signing WR Dante Pettis, eight years after selecting him in the 2nd-round of the 2018 NFL Draft, per sources.
Pettis is headed back to where his NFL journey began. pic.twitter.com/C1TIVP4VHK
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) September 29, 2026
The 49ers are bringing Pettis back as they look to bolster the depth of their receiving corps, which has thinned due to injuries. They have already lost Ricky Pearsall, Christian Kirk, De'Zhaun Stribling, and Demarcus Robinson. However, Kirk will soon become eligible to return.
Even the team's biggest free-agency addition, veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, is dealing with a rib issue.
The 49ers selected Pettis in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Washington. After spending three seasons with San Francisco, he went on to play for the New York Giants, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints.
During the 2025 season with the Saints, Pettis appeared in eight games, recording nine receptions for 127 yards and averaging 14.1 yards per catch. His most recent receiving touchdown came in 2024 with New Orleans.
Over seven NFL seasons, Pettis has appeared in 66 games, including 19 starts. He has recorded 92 receptions for 1,231 yards and 13 touchdowns, along with three rushing attempts for 35 yards.
Pettis has also contributed on special teams throughout his career. He has returned 51 punts for 373 yards and 19 kickoffs for 465 yards.
More info on: Mike Evans, Christian Kirk, Ricky Pearsall, Dante Pettis, Demarcus Robinson, De'Zhaun Stribling
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