2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Austin Pettis, Boise State

Austin Pettis– WR- Boise State

6-3 201lbs Senior

Stats:

2007- 46 receptions, 465 yards, 6 touchdowns

2008- 49 receptions, 567 yards, 9 touchdowns

2009- 63 receptions, 855 yards, 14 touchdowns

Pros:

Austin Pettis enters the 2011 season as one of the top senior wide receivers in college football. Pettis is a decent sized receiver with good speed. He has above average hands and has an uncanny ability to make catches in tight traffic. With Pettis’ speed he can also serve as a returner on special teams. In his junior season, Pettis managed to score 14 touchdowns in just 11 games. By all accounts, Pettis should thrive as an NFL receiver.

Cons:

Pettis’ junior season was shortened as a result of a lower leg fracture. Early in his senior season, he will need to demonstrate that he is fully recovered from the injury and that he does not have durability problems. Also, by virtue of playing for Boise State, he will be knocked for not playing against top-level competition. As the season progresses, and heading into the Senior Bowl, he will need to demonstrate that he can match up against top college talent on the other side of the ball.

Thoughts:

Pettis has the size, speed, and ability to be a quality wide receiver in the NFL. He needs to have a strong senior season, from both statistical and durability standpoints. Pettis will get plenty of opportunities, in Chris Petersen’s offense, to pick up where he left off prior to last year’s untimely injury. Once the season is over, he will need to continue to have quality performances, during bowl season and leading up to the combine. Pettis is not currently on our 2011 NFL Draft Big Board, however, I predict he will flirt with making an appearance as the season progresses.

Projected Round:

Currently, Pettis is a fringe first round prospect, but could secure a first round grade with a good season. If he plays like he did last year, at worst he should be gone by the upper third of the second round.