NFL Rookie Preview: Brandon Pettigrew (CB)

The Detroit Lions got the number 20 pick and decided on Brandon Pettigrew out of Oklahoma State. Pettigrew stands 6’5” and weighs 263 lbs. Once again the Lions are looking for offense. He is a big tight end with great catching ability and blocking skill. He should compliment the Lion receivers in the offense giving them another threat.

Pettigrew has great hands and is able to catch a lot of passes in the short field. He also has ability to gain yards after the catch. He caught 112 passes at Oklahoma State. He is an overall tight end with great blocking ability in addition to his hands. He averaged 54 knockdown blocks every season in college. Pettigrew is all about winning. He is as eager to block, as he is to catch.

Pettigrew enjoys the physicality of football. He likes to hit and sustain his blocks. He has the body type for the position and can even stand to put on some more muscle in the pros. He is a big target for the quarterback at 6’5”. That size makes him tough to handle in the open field. He will use his size and strength to bulldoze his way for extra yards.

There are a few issues with Pettigrew. He has some technique issues and relies on his size more than running specific routes. He has also had police problems off of the field. The police charged him with assault and battery of a police officer in January of 2008. He hasn’t had any other problems.