Boise State senior wide receiver Austin Pettis is a safe prospect in the 2011 NFL Draft class because of his experience, size, hands and low probability for failure.

Pettis tallied a career-high 71 receptions for 951 yards last year. He scored 10 times. In 2009, as a junior, he racked up 63 grabs for 855 yards and 14 touchdowns. Pettis caught at least 46 passes in each of his four seasons with the Broncos. 

Strengths

• Size (6-foot-2 5/8, 209 pounds)
• Red zone target - fantastic jump-ball threat
• Shows good body control while fighting for the ball

• Reliable possession receiver

  Above-average hands
• Good effort - willing to sacrifice his body to make the play
• Plays with confidence over the middle
• Understands how to exploit zone coverage

Weaknesses

• Lack of elite athleticism - possession receiver with little upside
• Sloppy route runner - fails to create separation
• OK speed (official 4.56-second 40-yard dash)
• Not elusive in the open field

Expected draft placement

Pettis' steady hands and reliable nature as a possession receiver will likely earn him a fourth-round selection in the draft. 

The Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers have shown interest in Pettis.