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NFL Draft 2018: Way-too-early ranking of top Pac-12 prospects

By Erich Hilkert

Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) speaks to an ESPN reporter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) speaks to an ESPN reporter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Dante Pettis (8) scores a touchdown ahead of Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Dante Pettis (8) scores a touchdown ahead of Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) during the first quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

Dante Pettis and John Ross were a lethal tandem for quarterback Jake Browning in 2016, as well as on special teams for the Huskies.

Pettis should have more opportunities in 2017 as the top returning receiver with Ross being a likely first rounder in the 2017 NFL Draft. Pettis nearly doubled his yardage totals in 2016 (822 compared to 414 in 2015) after going from option three to option two at receiver, while Browning’s experience made the Huskies more confident throwing the ball.

Ross had 1,150 yards in 2016 as the team’s top option at receiver, perhaps a figure to keep in mind as Pettis prepares his goals for 2017.

Related Story: NFL Draft 2017: Ranking the top 10 running backs

Improving draft stock

Pettis could stand to bulk up for the NFL ranks. His elusiveness has helped him on special teams, but a few extra pounds would help solidify Pettis as a viable option on the outside.

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