San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed his relationship with receiver Dante Pettis during a media availability on Wednesday. This follows the team's decision to bring Pettis back after his release in November 2020. Shanahan stated, "There was no relationship issue. People get confused with the 'doghouse'. Sometimes, it's just coaching. I’ve always loved Dante. Dante is a great dude."
Pettis was drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft but struggled to make an impact due to injuries. Rumors of a fallout between Pettis and the 49ers emerged after the team attempted to trade him multiple times during the 2020 season, ultimately leading to his release.
Shanahan clarified, "That was just how it worked out. I think people get confused sometimes with saying, ‘people are in the doghouse’ and things like that. People, I think, get that confused with coaching."
After his release, Pettis played for three different teams and had his first healthy season in 2022 with the Chicago Bears, where he recorded 19 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns.
Shanahan noted that the 49ers had tried to bring Pettis back during training camp but were unsuccessful. After spending time as a free agent, Pettis signed with the Buffalo Bills in late July, appearing in two preseason games before being cut.
Pettis is now on the 49ers' practice squad and may have an opportunity to be elevated to the active roster due to injuries at the wide receiver position ahead of the team's game against the Denver Broncos.