San Francisco 49ers: Will Dante Pettis be able to find a role on the offense again?

It was another irrelevant game for wide receiver Dante Pettis. In week one, Kyle Shanahan explained it was injury related as to why Pettis was not involved. However, his limited action against the Bengals makes it clear where Pettis stands.

For the second consecutive week, Dante Pettis was a non-factor in the San Francisco 49ers offense. In week one, Pettis saw the field on only two snaps and recorded a catch. Last Sunday against the Bengals, he didn’t show up on the stat sheet. Rookie receiver Deebo Samuel has overtaken him in terms of a significant role.

Specifically designed plays are being called for Samuel and his usage is indicative of how Kyle Shanahan bores him. In Dante Pettis’ case, his limited usage shows how Shanahan views him. Even though he explained that Pettis had a groin injury in week one, which is supposedly why he kept him out for most of the game.

I don’t believe Shanahan views him as someone he can count out profusely. It’s definitely been a mix between injuries and his play that has caused him to lose faith from Shanahan. There’s also the addition of Deebo Samuel who is the clear cut better talent than Pettis. Last season before his season ending injury, Pettis showed a lot of potential and had some nice moments.

2019 was supposed to be his leap year, only except he took a plunge downward. Given the way it has been trending, will Dante Pettis be able to find a role on the offense again?

Barring any injuries to the wide receiver position, I don’t see Pettis being heavily involved in the offense at any point this season. There is just so many better options to choose from for Kyle Shanahan. Not to mention that slot wideout Trent Taylor should be returning soon. He’s someone that Shanahan views highly and can’t wait to return. Once he returns, how does Pettis even become involved?

Kendrick Bourne and Richie James Jr. have gotten increased roles over Pettis. It’s just another telling sign of where Pettis is at. Now for all we know, he could very well still be ailing from an injury. I'm just not too sold on that Kool-Aid that Shanahan is trying give us. The sad reality is probably that Pettis has not looked good and has been overlooked in favor of better talent.

Once again, Shanahan's actions and even words to a certain extent are evident. If Pettis hasn't done anything to show Shanahan he is worth the snaps by now, then he'll hardly see the field this season. When Trent Taylor and even Jalen Hurd returns, that will be the nail in the coffin for Pettis' involvement. There still always is a chance where he can suddenly make an impression, but it looks like it may be a little too late.