2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Dell Pettus, S, Troy

Player Data
Name, Jersey # | Dell Pettus, #1 |
School (Code) | Troy University (ALTR) |
DOB, Class Yr | N/A, rSr |
Height, Weight | 5115, 200 |
40 Yd Dash | 4.52 |
Position/Depth | S, 1 |
Honors/Captainship | 2019 Freshman All-American, 2019 All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention, 2020 All-Sun Belt 3rd Team |
Season Viewed (yr) | 2022 |
Games Watched | MSUN, SCCC, TXSN |
Scout Name / Date | Tyler Moore, 08/22/2023 |
Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)
2022 | 14 GP 14 Starts, 66 TOT, .5 TFL, 2 PBU, 1 FR |
2021 | 12 GP 12 Starts, 54 TOT, 1 TFL |
2020 | 11 GP 11 Starts, 58 TOT, 2 TFL, 1 INT, 6 PBU |
2019 | 12 GP, 63 TOT, 2 PBU |
Player Summary:
An undersized SS who possesses solid AA with Solid hip and foot movement that has been a 3+ year starter for his program and a staple in the defensive backfield as a cover safety. Is a high-energy and competitive guy who is active on the field and is the first to display energy and celebration on the field. He understands assignments and is able to rotate positions both pre and post-snap. Runs downhill with power and precision, making him effective in run support and in the second level. Able to flip his hips to drop into coverage, running with deep routes such as seams, etc. Is a good open-field tackler showing aggressiveness and the ability to tackle high and low when needed while attacking with good angles that limit missed tackles.
Adequate reads and vision cause him to be half a step behind when reacting to play development and transitioning from backpedaling to downhill running. Has a choppy back pedal which limits his ability to react. Have not seen the closing burst speed to finish plays or run across the field. Does not look to contest balls and is more of a pass-breakup over-interception type of ball skill player.
Scheme Fit:
Should continue playing in a cover zone defense like he did in college as an SS where he can still be effective in run support and be able to play in coverage. Has the strength and speed needed to play in such schemes and believes his issues can be fixed with development. Also played a majority of special teams snaps in college in various positions and can be useful as a special teamer.
Power Statement:
A strong and energetic SS who is effective in both run support and pass coverage to serve in a prominent rotational role at the next level, his value as both a defensive and special teams player improves his value to a team.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.