Shanahan Denies Rift with Receiver Pettis

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has refuted claims of a fractured relationship with wide receiver Dante Pettis, stating that any perceived distance was a result of coaching, not personal animosity.

Pettis, originally a second-round pick for the 49ers in 2018, was released by the team in November 2020 after multiple trade attempts. Shanahan addressed the situation during Wednesday's media availability, following the team's decision to re-sign Pettis to the practice squad on Tuesday. The move comes amid injuries at the wide receiver position, potentially opening a path for Pettis to join the active roster.

"There was no relationship issue. That was just how it worked out," Shanahan said. "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."

Shanahan expressed continued positive regard for Pettis, adding, "I’ve always loved Dante. Dante is a great dude, got a lot of ability. He’s done some really good things since we let him go at other places."

Pettis spent his post-49ers career with multiple teams, including a stint with the Chicago Bears in 2022 where he played in all 17 games, recording 19 receptions for 245 yards and three touchdowns. He also had a brief period with the Buffalo Bills before being released prior to the current season.

The 49ers reportedly attempted to bring Pettis back during training camp but were unsuccessful. His current signing offers him another opportunity with the team that drafted him, with a potential elevation to the active roster possible as the 49ers host the Denver Broncos.