Latest Updates
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| 2/8/2013 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
TE coach thinks he can help Pettigrew
News: New Lions tight ends coach Bobby Johnson believes he can help Brandon Pettigrew maximize his potential in 2013. Pettigrew finished second on the team with 59 catches but scored just three times, had a slew of drops and for Fantasy purposes had one game with 10 Fantasy points. "I think Brandon, just looking at him from what I've been watching on film, maybe has a little bit more ability in the intermediate routes," Johnson said while comparing him to the guy he coached last year, Marcedes Lewis. "He has a little bit more redirect ability or change-of-direction ability. I just think my experience with Marcedes this past year will help me help him."
Analysis: Pettigrew finishes 2012 with 567 receiving yards on 59 receptions, with three touchdowns. All three -- receptions, yards, and touchdowns -- represent his lowest totals in those categories since 2009, when he played just 11 games. There's obviously potential for him to rebound in 2013 and it'll start by him catching everything Matthew Stafford throws at him instead of making drops or running awkward routes. If you're the last one to draft a tight end this summer, going for Pettigrew as your starter to begin the year shouldn't sting.
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| 12/30/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew plays, does little
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who was a surprise starter after being inactive with an ankle injury the last two weeks, caught two passes for 11 yards in Detroit's 26-24 loss to the Bears. He was targeted three times.
Analysis: Pettigrew finishes 2012 with 567 receiving yards on 59 receptions, with three touchdowns. All three -- receptions, yards, and touchdowns -- represent his lowest totals in those categories since 2009, when he played just 11 games. Pettigrew wasn't a disaster, just a bit of a disappointment. But the Lions' offense as a whole was pretty lackluster this year, seeing a huge drop in passing touchdowns from 2011 despite leading the league in attempts for a second straight year. According to ADP data, Pettigrew was the eighth tight end taken in drafts this year; he would be lucky to be taken among the top 14 in 2013. He doesn't get a lot of touchdowns and his yardage is eaten into by Tony Scheffler. While Pettigrew isn't a bad tight end option, there will be plenty of better choices ahead of him next season.
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| 12/30/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew active for Week 17
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was declared active for Week 17 against the Bears, a surprise move, considering he was doubtful all week. Pettigrew hasn't played since suffering an ankle injury in Week 14.
Analysis: This game is essentially meaningless for the Lions, so Pettigrew may see limited snaps, making Tony Scheffler the better option of the Detroit tight ends. However, with a depleted receiving corps, there's always a chance Pettigrew plays through the pain and sees targets in the last game of the season (the Lions have the most pass attempts in the NFL this season). The Bears are permitting an average of 211.2 yards per game through the air this season. In addition, Chicago is yielding just 5.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends -- the second-lowest mark in the NFL. Pettigrew has three touchdowns this season, his lowest total since his rookie campaign in 2009 when he managed just two scores in 11 games. Fantasy owners in very deep leagues can make a case for starting him, but Pettigrew should be left on the bench in most formats.
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| 12/28/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew still a long shot to play
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) returned to practice Friday for the first time since suffering an ankle injury in Week 14, but is still unlikely to play in the season finale against Chicago. Pettigrew has missed the past two games with a troublesome high ankle sprain and is considered a long shot for Week 17 after being listed as doubtful on the team's injury report. The Bears are permitting an average of 211.2 yards per game through the air this season. In addition, Chicago is yielding just 5.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends -- the second-lowest mark in the NFL.
Analysis: Pettigrew was bottled up during the teams' first meeting this season and averaged a meager 7.8 yards per reception in Week 7. Now it appears he will be sidelined for the rematch, leaving the Lions without one of their top offensive threats once again. He will likely finish the season with just three touchdowns, his lowest total since his rookie campaign in 2009 when he managed just two scores in 11 games. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his official status, but he is not a recommended option again for Week 17.
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| 12/27/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew remains sidelined
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was held out of practice yet again Thursday, as his lingering high ankle sprain continues to put him at risk of missing his third game in a row in Week 17 against the Bears. Pettigrew has missed each of the team’s last two games, and it seems unlikely that he will be able to play if he cannot get back on the field in time for Friday’s practice.
Analysis: Pettigrew suffered the injury in Week 14, and has been unable to play since. He was averaging 4.4 catches for 42.8 yards per game before the injury, so he had some Fantasy value before the injury. If he can make it back for the season finale, Pettigrew might be a viable Fantasy option. At this point, however, he remains too risky to consider getting active in Week 17.
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| 12/26/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew not practicing
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who has been inactive the last two weeks due to a lingering ankle issue, continues to miss practice time with the injury, reports the Detroit Free Press Wednesday. Pettigrew missed Wednesday's practice with the same injury and will be questionable to return for the regular-season finale Week 17 against Chicago on Sunday.
Analysis: Pettigrew was injured during the Week 14 game against Green Bay and has been unable to play since. He'll attempt to make it back for the regular-season finale, but didn't practice Wednesday. Pettigrew scored a touchdown in his last full game and has three on the year. He could be a viable Fantasy option, if healthy, but we aren't expecting that heading into the Week 17 game at this point.
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| 12/22/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew sits out another game
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew was officially ruled inactive for Saturday's contest against the Falcons in Week 16 as he continues to nurse a lingering knee issue. Pettigrew missed last week's game at Arizona with a high ankle sprain and was listed as doubtful prior to Saturday's game. Will Heller is slated to start in his place at tight end against the Falcons, who are giving up 229.5 passing yards per game this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew's status hardly improved over the past week so the Lions decided to sit him out to prevent any further injury to their starting tight end with the team out of playoff contention. He could also be sidelined for the season finale as well, so we'll continue to follow up on his status heading into Week 17. Pettigrew has experienced a bit of a decline this year as he's managed just 57 catches for 556 yards -- both totals his lowest in the past three years. Fantasy owners should not consider Pettigrew a reliable option for Week 16 now that he is officially inactive.
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| 12/21/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew could miss more time
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew was listed as doubtful on the team's injury report for Week 16 against Atlanta with a lingering ankle issue. Pettigrew missed last week's game at Arizona with a high ankle sprain and is unlikely to play Sunday after missing practice over the past week. If he's inactive, Will Heller is expected to start in his place at tight end against the Falcons, who are giving up 229.5 passing yards per game this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew's status hardly improved over the past week and he will likely miss his second straight game. He could also be sidelined for the season finale as the Lions probably don't want to risk further injury to their starting tight end with the team out of playoff contention. Pettigrew has experienced a bit of a decline this year as he's managed just 57 catches for 556 yards -- both totals his lowest in the past three years. Fantasy owners should not consider Pettigrew a reliable option for Week 16 even if he is surprisingly active.
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| 12/20/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew doesn't practice Thurs.
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who sat out Week 15 with an ankle injury, did not return to practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 16 vs. Atlanta. Pettigrew, who did not play Week 15 at Arizona, has not practiced since exiting Week 14 at Green Bay. Will Heller is slated to start if Pettigrew is unable to play Saturday.
Analysis: If Pettigrew sits out again Week 16, it wouldn't be the first time a sprained ankle kept a player sidelined multiple games. Clearly, the Lions remain hopeful Pettigrew will play again this season because he isn't on injured reserve, but Fantasy owners should be preparing to start a healthier alternative. If Pettigrew's status greatly improves, then we will let you know.
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| 12/19/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew's status up in air
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who sat out Week 15 with an ankle injury, did not return to practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 16 vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: If Pettigrew sits out again Week 16, it wouldn't be the first time a sprained ankle kept a player sidelined multiple games. Clearly, the Lions remain hopeful Pettigrew will play again this season because he isn't on injured reserve, but Fantasy owners should be preparing to start a healthier alternative. If Pettigrew's status greatly improves, then we will let you know.
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| 12/16/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew out for Week 15
News: As anticipated, Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew was listed as inactive for Week 15 at Arizona with a troublesome ankle injury. Pettigrew was unlikely to play in Sunday's game after missing practice all three days last week and was listed as doubtful on the injury report. Will Heller started in his place against the Cardinals, who are surrendering 197.1 yards per game through the air this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew has recorded just two touchdowns over the past 11 games as his yardage total has remained lackluster. Barring a late-season surge, as well as a return to full strength, he is unlikely to top 700 yards for the first time in the past three years. Fantasy owners should seek other options for Week 15, but Heller is not viewed as a worthwhile replacement.
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| 12/14/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew heads to game-time call
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew missed practice for the third consecutive day Friday due to a high ankle sprain and his status for Week 15 at Arizona is highly uncertain, the Detroit Free Press reports. Pettigrew is officially listed as doubtful on the team's injury report and will test his ailing ankle during pregame warmups to determine if he can play against the Cardinals, who have been stingy against the pass this season (197.1 yards allowed per game). He suffered the injury in the first quarter last Sunday and was held without a catch for the first time this season.
Analysis: With Pettigrew's availability for Sunday's game in serious doubt, the Lions could turn to Tony Scheffler as their primary tight end against the Cardinals. Pettigrew has recorded just two touchdowns over the past 11 games as his yardage total has remained lackluster. Barring a late-season surge, he is unlikely to top 700 yards for the first time in the past three years. The Cardinals have permitted an average of 6.7 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends, but Fantasy owners should prepare to have healthier alternatives available as the Lions play during the second wave of games Sunday, leaving Pettigrew a risky option to keep active.
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| 12/13/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew looks iffy for Week 15
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was unable to practice for a second straight day Thursday, decreasing his chances of playing Week 15 at Arizona.
Analysis: It definitely appears Pettigrew is headed for the inactive list Sunday. If his status improves, then we will let you know, but for now plan to use a healthier alternative. This is a bad time for Pettigrew to be dealing with an injury since the Lions could really use him in the passing game due to all the issues they have at wide receiver. His absence would mean more reps for Tony Scheffler.
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| 12/12/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew not ready to practice
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who suffered an ankle injury Sunday, was held out of practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 15 at Arizona.
Analysis: This is a bad time for Pettigrew to be dealing with an injury since the Lions could really use him in the passing game due to all the issues they have at wide receiver. Sadly, Pettigrew might have to sit out Week 15 because of his injury. His absence would mean more reps for Tony Scheffler. Fantasy owners should be planning to use a healthier alternative until further notice.
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| 12/9/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew exits with an ankle injury
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was forced out of Sunday's contest against the Packers in Week 14 with an apparent left ankle injury. He sustained the injury early on in the first quarter and had his ankle taped up by trainers. Pettigrew was seen on the sidelines without a helmet on and failed to return to the game. He finished without a catch or a targets on the night. His replacement Tony Scheffler, caught a touchdown in the second quarter.
Analysis: This is a huge blow for owners that are depending on Pettigrew's production in the first week of the playoffs, especially since has already missed some end zone targets. It is uncertain when he actually sustained the injury and the team has not released much information on his status. He'll likely land on the injury report heading into Week 15 at Arizona, so we'll continue to monitor his status moving forward. He should be considered as a low-end starting option in most formats when healthy.
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| 12/6/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew has played well in Lambeau
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew will be looking to keep his recent success going on the road against the Packers in Week 14. Pettigrew had his best game of the season and racked up 43 yards and a touchdown on three catches against the Colts in Week 13. He'll face a Green Bay defense that has allowed just four touchdowns this season to a tight end, including one in the last seven weeks. Pettigrew finished with just four catches for 22 yards in his last meeting against the Packers in Week 11.
Analysis: Pettigrew has yet to find the end zone in six career meetings against Green Bay but did manage to rack up a career-high 116 yards in the final week of the 2011 regular season against the Packers, which was coincidentally, the last time he has played at Lambeau Field. Opposing tight ends have scored an average of six Fantasy points per game, which is tied for the sixth fewest allowed in the league. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end starting option in deeper formats heading into Week 14.
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| 12/2/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew has best game of year
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew had his best game of the season for Fantasy owners in Week 13 against the Colts on Sunday. Pettigrew had three catches for 43 yards and a touchdown on eight targets, and this was the first time all year he reached double digits in Fantasy points in a standard league.
Analysis: Pettigrew will look to keep playing well in Week 14 at Green Bay. In Week 11 against the Packers, Pettigrew had four catches for 22 yards on seven targets. He is a low-end starting option in most formats.
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| 11/29/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew has tough matchup
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew is struggling heading into Week 13 against the Colts. He was a star for PPR owners in Week 12 against Houston with eight catches for 74 yards on 15 targets, but he lost a fumble and finished with just five Fantasy points in a standard league. He has yet to reach double digits in Fantasy points this year despite scoring two touchdowns and has a tough matchup this week against the Colts. Indianapolis is among the league leaders against opposing tight ends as Rob Gronkowski is the only one to reach double digits in Fantasy points this year. Pettigrew is always better at home than on the road, but he's only averaging 5.1 Fantasy points in a standard league in five home games this season.
Analysis: We consider Pettigrew a borderline starting Fantasy option in standard leagues and a low-end starting option in PPR formats. We'd love to see more explosive plays down the field, but that's not his forte. He should only be started this week if needed.
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| 11/22/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew catches eight, fumbles one
News: Brandon Pettigrew caught eight of 15 passes sent his way from Matthew Stafford but only caught eight. He should have caught another two passes and fumbled one of the balls he did catch in the fourth quarter that short-circuited a drive. He had 74 yards on his eight receptions.
Analysis: The book on Pettigrew has been long written: He's a receptions machine but doesn't do much with the ball after the catch, hence his low receiving average. He'll take on a Colts team in Week 13 that has actually done well against tight ends all season, so he might not be worth starting unless he's your only tight end.
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| 11/18/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew limited in loss
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was held out of the end zone Sunday against the Packers, and he was able to do little else in a 24-20 loss. Pettigrew was targeted seven times in the passing game by quarterback Matthew Stafford, but he brought in just four of the passes. He had a long reception of 12 yards and finished with just 22 overall.
Analysis: Pettigrew is on pace for yet another decent total of catches, as he should get to at least 70 for the third season in a row, with 48 through 10 games. Unfortunately, his inability to hit on big plays continues to limit his production, as he is averaging just 9.1 yards per catch. He also had just two touchdowns in 10 games. The Lions will take on the Texans Thursday for the annual Thanksgiving game in Week 12. Pettigrew has yet to score on Thanksgiving in three games in his career, while averaging just 35.3 yards per game. The Texans allow just 6.4 Fantasy points per game to tight ends, but Pettigrew is still a big enough part of the offense to be worth starting in many Fantasy formats.
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| 11/17/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew packing a punch
News: After halting his six-game scoreless streak last Sunday against Minnesota, Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew will now turn his attention to extending his recent strong play against Green Bay in Week 11. During his last outing against the Packers, Pettigrew recorded seven catches for a career-high 116 yards. That game also marked the last time he has eclipsed the century mark as his season high this year is just 77 yards.
Analysis: Pettigrew could have a difficult time reaching the end zone for the second game in a row as the Green Bay defense has clamped down on tight ends recently. The Packers, who own the league's 21st-ranked pass defense, have allowed just one touchdown to the position over the past seven weeks. Still, Pettigrew remains one of the most targeted options in the Lions' passing game and has nine looks in two of his past three games. Fantasy owners should view Pettigrew as a quality option in most formats despite the Packers yielding an average of just 6.0 Fantasy points per game.
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| 11/11/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew stops scoreless stretch
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew posted three receptions for 32 yards and a touchdown during Detroit's 34-24 loss at Minnesota in Week 10. Pettigrew hauled in a 16-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matthew Stafford in the third quarter for the Lions' first score of the game, and halt his six-game scoreless skid. He finished with nine targets from Stafford, second most on the team behind Calvin Johnson (13).
Analysis: Pettigrew had five touchdowns during a breakout campaign last year, but has been unable to sustain that production this year as Sunday marked just his second score. He also hasn't produced many consistent catch totals on a team loaded with capable receiver threats who can race downfield. But he remains a safety net close to the line of scrimmage for Stafford as he's collected 69 targets in nine games. Fantasy owners should consider him a quality option in Week 11 against Green Bay as he looks to extend his scoring stretch.
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| 11/9/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew looking for rebound
News: For the first time in four weeks, Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew did not appear on the injury report as he seems to have returned to full strength following a lingering ankle issue. Now, he will attempt to rebound from the worst outing of the season when he finished with just one reception for 11 yards last Sunday against Jacksonville. But Pettigrew's Week 10 opponent -- division rival Minnesota -- is a favorable foe as he racked up seven receptions for 67 yards during the teams' first meeting this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew ran into a road block against the Jaguars' stingy defense covering tight ends, but a return to Minnesota could be beneficial for the 27-year-old. In his previous game on the road against the Vikings, Pettigrew posted a career-high 11 receptions for 112 yards. While he may not come close to the 11 catches he did last year, he is still one of the most targeted players on the Lions and is averaging 7.5 looks per game. Pettigrew's recent scoring slump has dropped him into worthwhile status only in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 10. The Vikings are allowing an average of 7.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends.
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| 11/4/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew hardly a factor Week 9
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who had a seven-catch, 74-yard performance last week against the Seahawks, wasn't nearly as productive Week 9 at Jacksonville. He caught one pass for 11 yards, getting targeted only three times on the day. Of course, he didn't have much of a chance to be targeted in the second half. After building up a 21-0 lead, the Lions relied heavily on the running game, with quarterback Matthew Stafford attempting only nine passes over the final two quarters.
Analysis: The Jaguars entered the game allowing the second-fewest Fantasy points per game to tight ends this season, and they only strengthened their standing by limiting Pettigrew the way they did. Of course, the way the game unfolded probably had more to do with it than anything else. When the Lions are playing from behind, Pettigrew is a critical safety valve for quarterback Matthew Stafford, which is why he often racks up a high number of catches. But given his lack of big-play ability, he's hardly a go-to guy when the offense is rolling. At Minnesota in Week 10, Pettigrew is still worth using as a bye-week replacement, but he's hardly an automatic starter in Fantasy.
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| 11/4/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew fine to play in Week 9
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who continued to miss practice time with a knee injury leading up to the game, is active for Week 9 at Jacksonville. He has yet to miss a game because of the injury.
Analysis: Pettigrew had one of his best games last week, catching seven passes for 74 yards, and is one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's preferred targets underneath, but he's facing a defense that has allowed the second-fewest Fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. As a bye-week replacement, he's fine, but his upside from week-to-week isn't high enough to make him a must-start in this game.
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| 11/1/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew might not keep it up
News: During the first full game wide receiver Nate Burleson missed with a broken leg, Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew had arguably his best performance of the season, catching seven passes for 74 yards Week 8 against the Seahawks. The performance was especially impressive considering it came against a defense that had thrived against the pass up to that point. Pettigrew will face similarly long odds Week 9 at Jacksonville. The Jaguars haven't been all that successful against the pass, ranking 23rd in yards allowed per game, but they've surrendered the second-fewest Fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. As has been the case every week, Pettigrew has missed some practice time this week with a knee injury, but he should be good to go come Sunday.
Analysis: The Jaguars' success against tight ends is a direct result of them having yet to allow a touchdown to a tight end this season, but that's not so surprising when you consider they've allowed a total of nine passing touchdowns, seventh-fewest in the NFL. Pettigrew lacks big-play potential and sometimes gets lost in all the Lions' other receiving options, but his matchup shouldn't be the reason you sit him in Fantasy. If anything, he's looking like an advisable bye-week replacement for this week.
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| 10/28/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Mr. Pettigrew shines for a day
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew caught seven passes for 74 yards in a Week 8 win over the Seahawks. Pettigrew was tied for the team lead with nine targets. He is now averaging 72 yards in two games against the Seahawks for his career.
Analysis: Pettigrew had been viewed as a bit of a disappointment so far this season, with just one game over 75 yards receiving and a recent run of mediocrity -- 77 yards over his past two games. Pettigrew has yet to catch his second touchdown of the year, but he only had five in 2011 and four in 2010 -- his value was in yardage, and with 374 yards over seven games, he is on pace for a career-high of 855. Inching his way back into the top tier, Pettigrew should be started in all PPR leagues, and is a top-12 tight end in standard leagues, as well.
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| 10/26/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Knee injury won't keep Pettigrew out in Week 8
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 8 against Seattle as he continues to deal with knee injury. Pettigrew has been limited in practice all week but is expected to play on Sunday. Although the sample size is small, Pettigrew has found success in his one career game against the Seahawks: in 2009, he caught seven passes for 70 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Pettigrew has caught a lot of flak from upset Fantasy players so far this year, with 298 receiving yards and one touchdown. His matchup against Seattle bodes well for him personally, but the Seahawks have given up seven or more Fantasy points just once to tight ends -- and it was in Week 6 against the Patriots, who have the most talented TE combo in the NFL. The Lions are still throwing, and Pettigrew is on pace for more receiving yards than he had in 2011, but he may not be the huge breakout that his owners had hoped for. It seems as if he will be healthy enough to play and is worth starting in most leagues, but expectations should be tempered for his value going forward.
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| 10/24/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew has success against Seattle
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew, who has been a bit of a disappointment so far this season, has something to look forward to in Week 8: a matchup against Seattle. Although the sample size is small, Pettigrew has found success in his one career game against the Seahawks: in 2009, he caught seven passes for 70 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Pettigrew has caught a lot of flak from upset Fantasy players so far this year, with 298 receiving yards and one touchdown. But he's actually on pace to eclipse his receiving yardage (795 vs. 777) from last year, and just lags in touchdowns for the moment (he has one; he caught five total in 2011). The eighth tight end taken in drafts (and 84th player taken overall), Pettigrew's matchup against Seattle bodes well for him personally, but the Seahawks have given up seven or more Fantasy points just once to tight ends -- and it was in Week 6 against the Patriots, who have the most talented TE combo in the NFL. The Lions are still throwing, and Pettigrew is on pace for more receiving yards than he had in 2011, but he may not be the huge breakout that his owners had hoped for. He is worth starting in most leagues, but expectations should be tempered for his value going forward.
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| 10/23/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew quiet yet again
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was not much of a factor in Week 7 against the Bears. Pettigrew did haul in five receptions in the 13-7 defeat, but only gained 37 yards and was once again held out of the end zone. His longest reception went for 13 yards and he was targeted six times by Matthew Stafford. Titus Young led Detroit in receiving with six catches for 81 yards in the loss.
Analysis: Pettigrew was not much of a factor Monday night as he once again finished with just 30-plus yards receiving. However, he could be looking at a few more passes heading in his direction moving forward as the team announced Nate Burleson will miss the remainder of the season after breaking his leg. While Titus Young and Ryan Broyles are the two whose value will likely see the biggest spike with the latest news, Pettigrew could also see an increase in targets over the next few weeks. The 27-year-old has hauled in three receptions in all six of his games thus far but just has just one TD over that stretch. Consider him more of a low-end option when the Lions host the Seahawks in Week 8.
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| 10/22/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew starting in Chicago
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee) is active and starting for the Lions in the Week 7 Monday night game against the Bears. Pettigrew entered Monday's game as probable on the injury as he was never seriously in jeopardy of missing the game for the Lions. He was limited in practice early in the week but was a full go by the end and is 100 percent ready to play.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been dealing with this knee issue for a few weeks now and he's yet to miss any time for the Lions. That said, the tight end has not played well recently, being held out of the end zone for three games in a row while finishing with just three catches for 38 yards in Week 6. The Bears have been solid against tight ends and Pettigrew should be considered more of a low-end Fantasy start for Week 7.
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| 10/20/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew fine for Monday night
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee) is expected to be fine for the Monday night game against the Bears Week 7. Pettigrew was listed as probable to play in the game on the official injury report as he's been slowed by a knee issue. He was able to practice in full Saturday after being limited earlier in the week.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been dealing with a knee injury for a few weeks, but it has yet to keep him off the field for game day. He is expected to play, barring a setback. Pettigrew has struggled recently, being held out of the end zone for three games in a row while finishing with just three catches for 38 yards in Week 6. The Bears have been solid against tight ends and Pettigrew should be considered more of a low-end Fantasy start for Week 7.
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| 10/19/2012 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Knee limiting Pettigrew
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was limited in practice Friday, as the team prepares for the Bears Monday night in Week 7. Pettigrew has been dealing with a knee injury for a few weeks, but it has yet to keep him off the field for game day. He is expected to play, barring a setback. Pettigrew has struggled recently, being held out of the end zone for three games in a row while finishing with just three catches for 38 yards in Week 6.
Analysis: The Bears are allowing just 8.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends, while ranking 14th in the league in pass defense at 225 yards per game overall. The Bears have allowed just one tight end to reach double figures in Fantasy scoring this season. Pettigrew also doesn't have the best history against the division rival as he is averaging just 36.6 receiving yards over his five career meetings against the Bears and has only found the end zone once over that stretch. Consider the 27-year-old more of a low-end option in Week 7.
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| 10/18/2012 |
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Pettigrew looking to end scoring drought
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew will be looking to get back in the end zone in Week 7 against the Bears. Pettigrew has failed to score a touchdown in each of his last three contests and finished with just three receptions for 38 yards in Detroit's overtime win over the Eagles last week. Chicago enters the contest ranked 14th in pass defense after allowing an average of 225 passing yards per game. The Bears have surrendered five touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 8.0 Fantasy points to opposing TEs.
Analysis: Pettigrew is coming off of a very disappointing performance last week in Philadelphia and now looks to have another tough matchup on tap Monday night. The Bears have been very good at defending the pass this season and have only allowed one opposing TE to finish with a double-digit Fantasy total. Pettigrew also doesn't have the best history against the division rival as he is averaging just 36.6 receiving yards over his five career meetings against the Bears and has only found the end zone once over that stretch. Consider the 27-year-old more of a low-end option in Week 7.
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| 10/14/2012 |
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Pettigrew a non-factor Week 6.
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew wasn't a major factor in the passing game Week 6 at Philadelphia. He was held to just three catches for 38 yards, with his longest reception going for 16 yards. Pettigrew was targeted seven times.
Analysis: We aren't surprised Pettigrew was held in check Week 6. The Eagles came into Week 6 yielding just 4.2 Fantasy points and 37.2 yards per game to tight ends. Pettigrew was right on the average for both stats. Unfortunately, Pettigrew was held under 60 yards for just the second time this season and he still has just one touchdown in five games. Pettigrew remains a low-end Fantasy starter heading into Week 7 at Chicago.
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| 10/14/2012 |
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Pettigrew in lineup as expected
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee) is active and starting Week 6 at Philadelphia. He was probable on the injury report. Pettigrew recorded his first career 100-yard performance the last time he faced the Eagles in 2010. No tight end has recorded more than 65 yards against Philadelphia this season. Pettigrew has 233 yards and a touchdown on 23 catches and 35 targets through four games.
Analysis: Pettigrew is off to a good start in 2012. He has been held under 60 yards just once in his first four games and has had five or more catches in three of four games. He is averaging a career-high 55.8 receiving yards per game. Unfortunately, Pettigrew has just one touchdown over that span. Tight ends also have one touchdown and are averaging 4.2 Fantasy points per week against the Eagles, which is tied for sixth lowest in the NFL. He is more valuable in PPR leagues, but Pettigrew still passes as a low-end Fantasy starter in standard formats Week 6.
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| 10/12/2012 |
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Knee injury not holding Pettigrew back
News: For the third day in a row, Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was limited in practice Friday because of a knee injury. Pettigrew is listed as probable and is expected to play in Week 6 at Philadelphia, barring a setback. He recorded his first career 100-yard performance the last time he faced the Eagles. No tight end has recorded more than 65 yards against Philadelphia thus far. Pettigrew has 233 yards and a touchdown on 23 catches and 35 targets through four games.
Analysis: Pettigrew is off to a good start in 2012 and has been held under 60 yards just once in his first four games and has had five or more catches in three of four games. He is averaging a career-high 55.8 receiving yards per game. Unfortunately, Pettigrew has just one touchdown over that span. Tight ends also have one touchdown and are averaging 4.2 Fantasy points per week against the Eagles, which is tied for sixth lowest in the NFL. He is more valuable in PPR leagues, but Pettigrew still passes as a low-end Fantasy starter in standard formats Week 6.
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| 10/11/2012 |
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Pettigrew still limited in practice
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was limited during Thursday's practice session as the prepares for Week 6 at Philadelphia. Pettigrew has been limited the last two days of practice but is expected to play Week 6 barring a setback. The last time Pettigrew played the Eagles in 2010, he recorded his first career 100-yard game. No tight end has recorded more than 65 yards against the Eagles this season. Tight ends also have one touchdown and are averaging 4.2 Fantasy points per week against Philadelphia, which is tied for sixth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Pettigrew is off to a good start in 2012 and has been held under 60 yards just once in his first four games and has had five or more catches in three of four games. He is averaging a career-high 55.8 receiving yards per game. Unfortunately, Pettigrew has just one touchdown over that span. He is more valuable in PPR leagues, but Pettigrew still passes as a low-end Fantasy starter in standard formats Week 6.
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| 10/10/2012 |
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Pettigrew limited by knee injury
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was limited in practice Wednesday because of a knee injury. Barring a setback, he should play Week 6 at Philadelphia. The last time Pettigrew played the Eagles in 2010, he recorded his first career 100-yard game. No tight end has recorded more than 65 yards against the Eagles this season. Tight ends also have one touchdown and are averaging 4.2 Fantasy points per week against Philadelphia, which is tied for sixth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Pettigrew is off to a good start in 2012. He has been held under 60 yards just once in four games and has had five or more catches in three of four games. He is averaging a career-high 55.8 receiving yards per game. Unfortunately, Pettigrew has just one touchdown. He is more valuable in PPR leagues, but Pettigrew still passes as a low-end Fantasy starter in standard formats Week 6.
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| 9/30/2012 |
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Pettigrew lands seven catches, no score
News: In the Lions' Week 4 loss to the Vikings, tight end Brandon Pettigrew had a team-high seven catches on nine targets for 67 yards, but did not score. He could have if not for a drop in the end zone just before halftime. Pettigrew played a ton, running routes on pretty much every single pass play and blocking in tandem with the offensive line.
Analysis: This stat line has been all too common for Pettigrew. He gets a slew of catches but his yardage is mediocre and his touchdowns don't come in bunches. He has five-plus catches and 60-plus yards in three of four games this season. Despite the tough numbers this week, he remains a good Fantasy option. The Lions are on bye in Week 5 and play at Philadelphia in Week 6.
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| 9/27/2012 |
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Pettigrew ready for Viking quest
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew will look for his third straight game with at least six Fantasy points when he takes on the Vikings at home in Week 3. The story remains the same for Pettigrew so far this season: Lots of targets, lots of catches, but not much else. He's third on the team in receptions but second in yards, though that's because teammate Nate Burleson is averaging 8.8 yards per catch. Tight ends have scored in three straight games against the Vikings, a number that should appeal to the Lions' coaching staff as they build their game plan. Pettigrew had 112 receiving yards in one game against the Vikings and 57 yards and a score in the other, making him a double-digit Fantasy point producer in both matchups.
Analysis: All signs point to this being a great week for Pettigrew to post some solid numbers. Consider him a quality starter and Top 10 option at the position regardless of format.
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| 9/23/2012 |
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Pettigrew catches plenty, fumbles one
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew again proved to be one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's preferred receiving targets Week 3 at Tennessee, tying Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson with a team-high 12 targets and turning those 12 targets into a season-high eight catches for 61 yards. The only problem is he made a crucial mistake late in the fourth quarter when he allowed defensive back Alterraun Verner to strip the ball out of his hands and return it 72 yards for a touchdown.
Analysis: The touchdown put the Titans up 14 with less than two minutes to go, and though the Lions would rally to send the game to overtime, Pettigrew is still one of the goats in what ultimately was a loss. As long as he keeps getting the targets and catches, you don't care so much about the mistakes in Fantasy, but mistakes can sometimes jeopardize playing time. For now, Pettigrew remains an adequate Fantasy option in points-per-reception leagues. He lacks big-play potential, but he usually catches plenty of short ones. The Lions host the Vikings in Week 4.
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| 9/19/2012 |
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Pettigrew in position for big game?
News: Though the Lions' passing game has struggled through the first two weeks, tight end Brandon Pettigrew has remained a steady contributor. He caught five passes for 77 yards Week 1 against the Rams, and though he regressed to only three catches for 18 yards Week 2 at the 49ers, he scored a touchdown. In Week 3, he might offer the best of both worlds -- the yardage and a touchdown -- on the road against Tennessee. This year, the Titans have struggled on defense in general and rank 20th against the pass specifically. And tight ends have been the biggest thorn in their side. They've allowed the most Fantasy points to tight ends of all 32 teams this season.
Analysis: No doubt, Pettigrew plays second fiddle to Calvin Johnson in the red zone, but he's an important safety valve for Matthew Stafford underneath. Stafford has talked some this week about taking what the defense gives him instead of forcing the issue, and you'd think Pettigrew would benefit from that approach. Because the Lions figure to move the ball with this matchup, Pettigrew should get enough catches to make you happy you started him -- especially if one of those catches happens to be in the end zone.
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| 9/17/2012 |
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Pettigrew scores late
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was unable to make his impact felt for much of Sunday’s game against the 49ers, but he finally found the end zone in the final minutes to make up for a slow start. Pettigrew was targeted just four times in the game, bringing in three of them for 18 yards, including a 9-yard score in the fourth quarter, to bring the final score to 27-19, San Francisco.
Analysis: Pettigrew finished second on the team in targets, but was unable to find much room to operate, as the 49ers made life incredibly difficult for Detroit all game long. Still, Pettigrew was able to find the end zone in the second week of the season, after being held out for the first four weeks in 2011. Pettigrew has a tremendous opportunity to return there next week, as the Lions get set to face the Titans in Week 3. Tennessee has allowed five touchdowns through the air through two seasons, all to the hands of tight ends. Pettigrew remains a solid Fantasy option in the majority of formats for the upcoming match up.
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| 9/13/2012 |
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Pettigrew looms large for Niners
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew got into the end zone in a Week 6 matchup with the 49ers last season, and his presence on the field may dictate how the Niners approach their defense. Last week against San Francisco, Packers tight end Jermichael Finley brought in seven passes for 47 yards and a score, as he took advantage of the 49ers lining up a defensive back against him. "Some of those plays, we were treating Finley like a split-out receiver," defensive back Perrish Cox, who serves as the team’s dime back, said. "So we were treating him like another receiver." The 49ers did not treat Pettigrew in a similar way in their matchup last season, instead using linebackers for much of his coverage. Pettigrew still managed eight catches and 42 yards for a score, so the 49ers will need to find the best matchup for the big tight end, who was targeted 10 times for the Lions in Week 1.
Analysis: The Niners have been tasked with taking on two of the league's best passing offenses to begin the season, and both feature dynamic tight ends, so it will be interesting to see if Pettigrew can find the end zone like Finley did. The 49ers were the best rushing defense in the league last season, so the Lions may turn to the passing game early and often, likely meaning plenty of opportunities for Pettigrew. He was targeted 14 times last season when the Lions fell to the Niners. No matter how San Francisco's defense approaches him, Pettigrew is worthy of starting in most Fantasy formats for Week 2.
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| 9/9/2012 |
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Pettigrew on target in opener
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew finished with five receptions for 77 yards during the Lions' 27-23 victory over St. Louis in Week 1. Pettigrew was heavily targeted in the passing game and collected a team-high 10 looks from quarterback Matthew Stafford. His yardage total was second on the team to only Calvin Johnson as he posted an impressive average of 15.4 yards per catch.
Analysis: After posting a career-high 83 receptions last season, Pettigrew remained a focal point of the Lions offense and served as a strong option over the middle for Stafford. In fact, Detroit continues to favor an offense that relied heavily on tight ends as Tony Scheffler also had five catches for 30 yards. But the two could jockey back-and-forth for targets in the end zone, which could slightly affect Pettigrew's value. He still remains a solid Fantasy option in most formats, but he earns additional value in PPR formats for his ample reception totals.
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| 9/7/2012 |
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Secret is out about Pettigrew
News: Detroit tight end Brandon Pettigrew proved his 2010 campaign was not a fluke when he registered career highs in receptions (83) and yards (777) in 16 games last year. In addition, he also hauled in five touchdown passes -- also a career high -- as his 6-foot-5 stature makes him a strong target in the red zone. Now, he is looking to make it three straight seasons with at least 70 catches and 700 yards as he has blossomed into a key member of the Lions' high-flying aerial assault. Pettigrew and the Lions battle St. Louis in their Week 1 matchup Sunday.
Analysis: Pettigrew missed five games during his rookie season in 2009, but has effectively showed his potential when he stays healthy. And the Lions and Fantasy owners are reaping the benefits. But despite his second consecutive impressive season, the 27-year-old remained a mid- to late-round option in several Fantasy drafts after the elite tight ends flew off the board. Pettigrew is especially helpful in PPR formats as he tallied at least six catches in six different outings last year. Keep him active as a strong start in all formats overall for Week 1.
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| 8/30/2012 |
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Pettigrew sits out preseason finale
News: Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew did not play in the preseason finale Thursday against Buffalo. Pettigrew played in the first three preseason games for the Lions and caught seven passes for 61 yards with a touchdown. Pettigrew caught a TD pass in his last game at Oakland. He heads into Week 1 against St. Louis with an average draft position of 84.5 in most Fantasy drafts.
Analysis: Pettigrew was held out of the preseason finale but is good to go for Week 1 against the Rams. He's coming off a season in which he caught 83 passes for 777 yards with five touchdowns and could see an improvement as the Lions offense continues to get stronger. Pettigrew is easily a recommended Fantasy start for Week 1 and should continue to be taken as a No. 1 Fantasy tight end on Draft Day.
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| 8/10/2012 |
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Pettigrew gets early looks
News: Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford looked tight end Brandon Pettigrew's early and often during Friday's preseason opener against the Browns. Four of Stafford's seven passes were intended for Pettigrew, who finished with two receptions for 15 yards in the contest. He had a long of 14 yards and was targeted four times -- the most among all of Detroit's starters.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been a terrific security blanket in the middle of the field for Stafford over the past two seasons, but wants to make more big plays this year. Of course that is easier said than done, especially with Calvin Johnson on the same field. Still, Pettigrew was able to post career highs in receptions (83), receiving yards (777) and touchdowns (5) last season, while being targeted 110 times -- which was second to Johnson's 158. While he might lose some production with the emergence of Titus Young as well as continued success of Johnson and Nate Burleson, Pettigrew should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into the season. Consider spending a mid-to-late round pick on the 27-year-old in most formats.
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| 7/31/2012 |
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Pettigrew ready for big year
News: The Lions official team website reports that tight end Brandon Pettigrew would like to make more big plays this season. Pettigrew has been a terrific security blanket in the middle of the field for quarterback Matthew Stafford. He’s amassed 154 catches for 1,499 yards and nine touchdowns over the last two seasons. But Pettigrew wants to be mentioned among the elite players at his position this year. “(I’ve) definitely got goals to make it to the Pro Bowl,” Pettigrew said. “I've been trying but you got tight ends in the league that are really doing it, they're putting up a lot more touchdown numbers.” The report says Pettigrew has been one of the favorite targets of Stafford early on in training camp. “You’ve seen everything he does," coach Jim Schwartz said. "He’s caught a lot of balls down the seam and deep passes and different things like that. I just think with him you’ll see it done a little bit better. You know, a little bit more consistent.”
Analysis: Pettigrew has the chance for a solid season this year, and he presents tremendous value on Draft Day. If you miss on one of the elite tight ends then he should be available for you with a pick in Round 10 or later as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option. He might lose some production with the emergence of Titus Young, the presence of Ryan Broyles and the continued success of Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson, but Pettigrew will still find a way to make plays.
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| 1/8/2012 |
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Pettigrew can't find end zone
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught four passes for 49 yards on Saturday versus the Saints. He was targeted five times by Matthew Stafford, but failed to find the end zone in his team's 45-28 loss.
Analysis: Pettigrew was one of Stafford's favorite targets during the regular season as he set the franchise record for most receiving yards by a tight end in a season -- 777 yards. He caught 83 passes and had five touchdowns during the regular season, both career highs. Fantasy owners should consider Pettigrew a top TE choice on Draft Day in 2012.
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| 1/1/2012 |
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Pettigrew's status keeps rising
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew finished with seven receptions for a season-high 116 yards during the Lions' 45-41 loss at Green Bay in Week 17. Pettigrew collected 11 targets from QB Matthew Stafford as he posted a season-best 16.6 yards per catch on Sunday. It was also his second 100-yard outing of the season and first since Week 3 against Minnesota when he netted 112 yards on a season-high 11 receptions.
Analysis: Pettigrew set the franchise record for most receiving yards by a tight end in a season (722) last year and easily surpassed that mark Sunday as he finished the regular season with a total of 777 yards. With defenses focusing on Pettigrew near the line of scrimmage, that gives Stafford an opportunity to find star WR Calvin Johnson for large gains downfield. Consider Pettigrew a solid TE option in upcoming Fantasy playoff formats.
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| 12/30/2011 |
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Pettigrew stands alone for Lions
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew enters Week 17 against Green Bay on a late-season surge as he's played a key role in helping the Lions secure a playoff spot for the first time since 1999. Pettigrew has hauled in at least five passes in each of his past three games -- 20 total -- and reached the end zone in two of those outings. His nine-catch showing last week gave him 76 total receptions this season, the most by a tight end in team history.
Analysis: Pettigrew has certainly picked a good time to regain some momentum as he's topped 49 yards in each game the past three weeks. In his first outing against the Packers this season, Pettigrew was held to just four receptions for 27 yards. But he could rebound on Sunday as Green Bay is surrendering an average of 9.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. Consider Pettigrew a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 17.
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| 12/24/2011 |
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Pettigrew sets new Lions’ mark
News: With nine catches during Week 16 against the Chargers, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew established a new franchise-record for single-season catches by a tight end. Pettigrew now has 76 catches on the season, and he added 80 yards and his fifth touchdown of the season during the Lions 38-10 dismantling of the Chargers. The record Pettigrew broke with his fifth reception the day was his own, set in 2010.
Analysis: Pettigrew has had an odd season, to be certain. He’s among the best tight ends at catching passes, but he has now gone 11 straight games without topping 10-yards-per catch. He led the Lions in catches and targets in Week 16, as Matthew Stafford looked for him 10 times in the game. Stafford looks Pettigrew’s way a lot, and he generally does so on short passes, so Pettigrew gets a lot of opportunities. He’s more valuable in PPR leagues, but he’s a worthy No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 17 against the Packers, despite having just 27 yards against them in Week 12.
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| 12/21/2011 |
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Pettigrew looking to break own club record
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew heads into Week 16 against San Diego needing just five catches to top his own club record for catches from a tight end set last year. Pettigrew will attempt to do that facing a team that has been pretty good at guarding the tight end position this season. That said, Baltimore's Ed Dickson caught three passes for 36 yards and a TD last week against the Chargers.
Analysis: Pettigrew does not have the best matchup heading into Week 16. The Chargers are decent against tight ends and Pettigrew hasn't topped 57 yards receiving in a game since Week 4. Pettigrew has four touchdowns on the year and is considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 16.
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| 12/18/2011 |
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Pettigrew decent in Week 15
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew had five catches for 49 yards in the Lions 28-27 win over Oakland in Week 15. He was targeted 11 times, second most on the team.
Analysis: Pettigrew continues to disappoint, as he’s averaged fewer than 10-yards-per catch on the season. He is a reliable option in PPR leagues, but his lack of big plays and scoring severely limits his value. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option in Week 16 against San Diego.
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| 12/14/2011 |
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Pettigrew looking for a breakout
News: Only five tight ends have been targeted more often in the NFL this season than Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, which makes his subpar season all the more disappointing. His yards-per game is actually down this year from last despite the increased attention paid to him in the offense. Pettigrew has been unable to find the big play for most of the season, and his 8.6 yards-per catch average on the season is shocking given Detroit’s big play tendencies as a team. However, he may be able to find something of a breakout in Week 15 against the Raiders, who allow the sixth-best yards-per catch average in the league to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: The former first-round pick has been something of a disappointment thus far in his three NFL seasons, as he has now dipped below 10-yards per catch for his career. However Pettigrew could be in line for a solid line in Week 15, as the Raiders have struggled to cover tight ends in recent weeks, allowing three touchdowns in their last four games. Pettigrew needs just one more touchdown to surpass his career high set last year. With a solid-matchup and coming off a game where he scored, we expect him to be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 15.
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| 12/11/2011 |
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Pettigrew key to Lions' win
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew's best game of the season came back in Week 3 against the Vikings, and he had another strong performance in his second meeting with Minnesota this year. Pettigrew tied for the team lead in targets (seven) and was the sole leader in catches (six), and he caught his fourth touchdown of the year in a 34-28 win in Week 14. Pettigrew's 12-yard score helped the Lions jump out to a 21-0 lead with just over nine minutes expired in the game. He finished with 57 receiving yards.
Analysis: Though the Vikings have been fairly tough on tight ends this season, Pettigrew has had no problem against his intra-divisional foe. Over the course of the year, Pettigrew has had more weeks with modest production than with eye-popping numbers, so it's still best to think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy TE going forward.
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| 12/8/2011 |
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Can Pettigrew recapture magic?
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew had his best game of the season back in Week 3 against the Vikings, when he made 11 catches for 112 yards. Pettigrew will get to face the Vikings again in Week 14, and he is looking to rebound after six consecutive games with fewer than 40 receiving yards. While the Vikings have the 26th-ranked pass defense in the league, they have made it difficult for tight ends to gain yardage. Only the Colts, Rams and Lions have yielded fewer yards per catch to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: Given that the Vikings have made things difficult for tight ends this year, this does not look like the right week to expect Pettigrew to break out of his slump. Add in the fact that Pettigrew's targets have been inconsistent from week to week, and it appears that his Week 3 performance may have been a fluke. Think of Pettigrew as a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 14.
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| 12/6/2011 |
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Pettigrew apologizes for shoving official
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew issued a statement Tuesday apologizing for shoving an official during last Sunday’s game against the Saints. “In the heat of competition, I allowed my emotions to get the best of me,” Pettigrew said. I know better and my unintentional mistake cost my team. I've never acted this way before, and it won't happen again.” Pettigrew pushed an official while being separated from an opposing player in the fourth quarter, drawing a 15-yard penalty. He finished with just two receptions for 13 yards in the 31-17 loss. Detroit will host the Vikings in Week 14.
Analysis: Pettigrew will likely be facing a fine from the league at some point, but he will be on the field this week against the Vikings. The 26-year-old been a hit-or-miss Fantasy option for much of the season but remains a solid red-zone target for Matthew Stafford. Now he will face a Vikings' team in Week 14 that he torched for 112 yards on 11 catches earlier in the year. Minnesota has surrendered 24 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of seven Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season. However, based on Pettigrew's inconsistent production for much of the season, owners should consider him more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE on Sunday.
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| 12/5/2011 |
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Pettigrew quiet in Week 13
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was not able to do much in Week 13 against the Saints. He was held to just 13 yards on two catches in the 31-17 loss. He was targeted five times by QB Matthew Stafford and had a long reception of 8 yards.
Analysis: Pettigrew has caught just six passes for 40 yards over the last two games and had one of his slower performances of the year on Sunday. He has been hit-or-miss in Fantasy for much of the season but remains a solid red-zone target for Stafford. Keep an eye on his progress going forward to see if he will be able to get back on track. He could be in for a big performance in Week 14 against the Vikings as he torched the division rival for 112 yards on 11 catches earlier in the year. But based on his last few games, consider Pettigrew as more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE against Minnesota.
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| 11/29/2011 |
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Pettigrew not producing of late
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew enters Week 13 against the Saints averaging four catches and 34 yards over his last three games. While he has one touchdown over that span, he has not gone over the 40-yard mark since Week 6. New Orleans ranks 27th in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 254 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 8.3 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: Pettigrew had a solid four-game stretch in which he was lighting it up for owners but his production has been lacking of late. He plays a ton and gets a nice amount of targets, but he has not been able to come up with enough grabs to make him a viable enough option in Fantasy. While the Saints have not done that well against the pass thus far, consider Pettigrew as more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 13.
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| 11/24/2011 |
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Pettigrew produces little
News: Brandon Pettigrew's production was on the decline vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving, catching four of the eight passes thrown his way for just 27 yards. Pettigrew, who continues to play a ton, hasn't had more than 50 yards receiving since Week 4.
Analysis: Pettigrew plays a ton and gets a nice amount of targets, but he's just not productive enough to be considered a quality Fantasy tight end. He's not bad if you're hurting at the position and need somebody, but expectations just aren't great. If you're needy, consider some alternatives before going with him against the Saints in Week 13.
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| 11/22/2011 |
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Pettigrew wants Thanksgiving TD
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew has six catches for 79 yards without a touchdown in his last two games on Thanksgiving. Last year against the Patriots, Pettigrew caught five of those passes for 67 yards. The last time he faced the Packers on Thanksgiving, in 2009, Pettigrew caught just one pass for 12 yards. Pettigrew has never scored against Green Bay and has 11 career catches for 117 yards. That said, the Packers are allowing the fourth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew scored his first touchdown since Week 6 last week against Carolina as he caught four passes for 37 yards. Pettigrew has not topped 64 yards receiving since catching 11 passes for 112 yards Week 3 at Minnesota. Pettigrew has three touchdowns on the season. That said, the Packers just allowed Kellen Winslow to rack up nine catches for 132 yards last week, and have been allowing hordes of yardage to TEs on the year. We don't expect a huge game for Pettigrew, but he can be considered a borderline No. 1 or No. 2 Fantasy option.
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| 11/20/2011 |
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Pettigrew finds the end zone
News: Welcome back to the end zone, Brandon Pettigrew! While tight end Tony Scheffler has scored in three straight games, Fantasy owners haven't enjoyed a Pettigrew touchdown since Week 6. They got one in Week 11 when he scored on the Panthers while catching four passes for 37 yards. He was targeted five times.
Analysis: Pettigrew's return to Fantasy prominence comes at a great time -- the Lions are sure to be in a shootout on Thanksgiving vs. the Packers, who had Kellen Winslow eat them up for well over 100 yards in Week 11. Moreover Green Bay has allowed touchdowns to tight ends in two of four games and tight ends by and large have done well against the Pack for nearly the entire season. Consider Pettigrew good enough to start in Week 12.
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| 11/18/2011 |
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Time to punt on Pettigrew?
News: There was a stretch there where Brandon Pettigrew was becoming a great Fantasy tight end. He was good for at least nine Fantasy points in three of four weeks back in Week 3. But since trailing off in Week 7, he's been a disappointment. While he's totaled 77 yards on 12 catches (18 targets) in his last three games, fellow tight end Tony Scheffler has a pair of touchdowns and 90 yards on eight catches in the same span. He takes on the Panthers in Week 11; they've allowed two touchdowns to tight ends all season.
Analysis: Pettigrew passes the eyeball test and plays plenty in a pass-heavy offense, so it's understandable to fall in love with the guy. But until he begins to at least see more catches, Fantasy owners shouldn't settle for him. Consider other options before going with Pettigrew in Week 11.
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| 11/13/2011 |
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Pettigrew can't get going
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew caught five passes for 38 yards in Week 10 against Chicago. He was targeted nine times in the game, but couldn't haul in any more passes for the Lions. He was dealing with an elbow injury during the week, so that may still be bothering him. Detroit would lose the game, 37-13.
Analysis: Pettigrew is one of the best young tight ends in the league, but the Lions offense just struggled on Sunday. The Lions face the Panthers in Week 11 a team giving up 223.9 passing yards per game this season. Carolina has also allowed 11 passing touchdowns this year. Fantasy owners should continue to view Pettigrew as a solid TE option for next week.
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| 11/13/2011 |
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Pettigrew active for Week 10
News: As expected, Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew was active for Sunday's matchup against Chicago. He's been dealing with an elbow injury. In the first meeting this year, Pettigrew caught four passes for 39 yards and a touchdown versus the Bears.
Analysis: Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 264 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 10.5 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends, worst in the NFL. Fantasy owners should view him as a No. 1 TE option for Week 10.
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| 11/11/2011 |
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Pettigrew ready for Week 10
News: After catching four passes for 39 yards with a touchdown earlier in the year against the Bears, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew will be looking for more success when he takes on the division rival again in Week 10. Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 264 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 10.5 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends, worst in the NFL. Pettigrew practiced in full all week with an elbow injury and should be fine for Sunday -- he's listed as probable.
Analysis: Pettigrew posted three catches for 8 yards before the bye week but with how poor the Bears have been against tight ends thus far, Fantasy owners have to believe that he will be able to bounce back. He grabbed one of his two touchdowns when he played Chicago earlier in the year and should have similar success on Sunday. Consider Pettigrew a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 10.
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| 11/8/2011 |
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Pettigrew to repeat vs. Bears?
News: After catching four passes for 39 yards with a touchdown earlier in the year against the Bears, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew will be looking for more success when he takes on the division rival again in Week 10. Chicago ranks 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 264 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 10.5 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends, worst in the NFL.
Analysis: Pettigrew posted three catches for 8 yards before the bye week but with how poor the Bears have been against tight ends thus far, Fantasy owners have to believe that he will be able to bounce back. He grabbed one of his two touchdowns when he played Chicago earlier in the year and should have similar success on Sunday. Consider Pettigrew a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 10.
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| 10/30/2011 |
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Pettigrew limited in Week 8
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew had three catches for eight yards during the Lions' 45-10 victory over Denver in Week 8. Pettigrew was targeted just four times by QB Matthew Stafford as he posted a season-low 2.7 yards per catch. Two of his catches went for one yard or less.
Analysis: Pettigrew was overshadowed by fellow TE Tony Scheffler as he finished with 30 more yards and a touchdown against his former team. Pettigrew has been an active member of the Lions' passing game this year and entered Sunday's outing with at least four receptions in five consecutive games. Fantasy owners should dismiss his poor outing and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 10 against Chicago after Detroit's bye.
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| 10/28/2011 |
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Pettigrew catching on again
News: After racking up a career-high 71 receptions last season, Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew could make a run at eclipsing that total this year. Pettigrew ranks second among tight ends with 38 receptions this season (New Orleans' Jimmy Graham has 45), boosted by a career-high 11 grabs during Week 3 against Minnesota. Pettigrew, whose reception total is also eight-best overall in the NFL, and the Lions face Denver in Week 8.
Analysis: Despite the presence of star WR Calvin Johnson, Pettigrew continues to be heavily targeted in the Lions' passing game and has hauled in at least four catches in each of the past five weeks. He was held without a touchdown for the first time in three games during Week 7 against Atlanta, but should still see red-zone targets with RB Jahvid Best nursing a concussion. The Broncos are surrendering an average of just five Fantasy points to opposing tight ends this year, but yielded two touchdowns over their past four weeks to the position. Consider Pettigrew a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 8.
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| 10/23/2011 |
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Falcons able to limit Pettigrew
News: Falcons coach Mike Smith was wary of TE Brandon Pettigrew heading into Week 7 at Detroit, and accordingly, the defense made sure not to let him beat them, limiting him to four catches for 31 yards in a season-worst passing performance by QB Matthew Stafford. Pettigrew was targeted six times -- second most on the team -- but he went without a touchdown for the first time in three games.
Analysis: Pettigrew stepped up with eight catches against the 49ers in Week 6, but he had only 42 yards and is now averaging just 37.3 yards over his last three games. In other words, he's no sure bet to contribute in Fantasy if he doesn't score a touchdown. WR Calvin Johnson's presence will always limit Pettigrew's looks in the red zone, but as the season progresses, it's becoming more and more obvious that Pettigrew is the team's second-best receiving threat. That's enough to make him a No. 1 Fantasy TE, so keep him active for Week 8 at Denver.
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| 10/20/2011 |
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Pettigrew becoming matchups problem
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, who scored a touchdown for the second straight game in Week 6, is becoming such a weapon in the passing game that he's creating a matchups problem for opposing defenses, as the Falcons are discovering as they game plan for their trip to Detroit in Week 7. "The issue with the Lions is they have a very good tight end who has two less catches than Calvin [Johnson]," coach Mike Smith said. "It creates a quandary in terms of how we’re going to defend the passing game."
Analysis: The Falcons already have their work cut out for them against the league's eight-best passing attack. They rank 27th against the pass, allowing 283.3 yards per game. If they're having trouble scheming for Pettigrew on top of it, then the 2011 Fantasy breakout could be in for a huge game. He's already second among tight ends in targets, so it's not like you have to worry about a lack of opportunity with him. His performance this week could solidify his place as an every-week option in Fantasy. You wouldn't want to sit him for this matchup.
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| 10/16/2011 |
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Pettigrew gets second TD
News: After not scoring in any of the season's first four games, TE Brandon Pettigrew caught a touchdown pass for the second straight game, and his first-quarter 16-yard grab put the Lions up 10-0. Detroit couldn't hang on, though, and they dropped their Week 6 matchup against San Francisco, 25-19. Pettigrew's touchdown catch was his longest play of the game, and he finished with eight receptions for 42 yards. He also led the team with 14 targets.
Analysis: Pettigrew is among the most-targeted tight ends in Fantasy, so even when he doesn't find the end zone, he gets plenty of opportunities to make a contribution. In Week 7, he will go up against a Falcons pass defense that has been one of the most porous in the league. Owners should continue to use Pettigrew as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE.
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| 10/12/2011 |
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Targets should keep coming to Pettigrew
News: The Lions' Brandon Pettigrew enters his Week 6 matchup against the 49ers ranking fourth among all tight ends in both receptions and targets. Opposing teams have tested the 49ers pass defense frequently, as only five teams have had the ball thrown against them more times than San Francisco has so far this season. In addition to his high reception total, Pettigrew has had three games so far this season in which he has gained at least 50 receiving yards. The 49ers have allowed an opposing tight end to gain 50 receiving yards or more in each of the last four weeks.
Analysis: Pettigrew doesn't make that many big plays, but he is targeted frequently enough that he is a safe bet to produce. Especially against a pass defense as mediocre as the 49ers', Pettigrew is a solid choice as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
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| 10/11/2011 |
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Pettigrew finally finds end zone
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was finally able to get into the end zone in Week 5 against the Bears. Pettigrew was on the receiving end of a 18-yard touchdown strike from Matthew Stafford in the third quarter, which put Detroit up 14-10. He finished with four receptions for 39 yards in the 24-13, averaging 9.8 yards per reception.
Analysis: Pettigrew had come close on more than one occasion earlier in the season, but he was finally able to get himself into the end zone on Monday night. The former Oklahoma State product looks continues to be a favorite target of Staffords, as he has registered at least four receptions in all but one game this season. While Fantasy owners would like to see Pettigrew find a way to find the end zone with a little more frequency, his production has been consistent enough to consider him low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE most weeks. Continue to view him as such heading into Week 6 against the 49ers.
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| 10/6/2011 |
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Pettigrew part of young stars
News: With Detroit boasting several top selections in its lineup, including QB Matthew Stafford and DL Ndamukong Suh, TE Brandon Pettigrew seems to be the forgotten man from the first round. Pettigrew was selected by the Lions with the 20th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. But he has made an impact this season and has 22 catches, only two fewer than WR Calvin Johnson’s team-leading total. “We drafted him because he’s a multidimensional tight end,” Detroit coach Jim Schwartz said. “He’s a guy that can block and he can get down the field and he can catch a ball in short area and stuff like that. … He’s a very important part of our offense.
Analysis: The Oklahoma State product started 11 games as a rookie, even catching the winning touchdown pass with no time remaining in a victory over Cleveland. However, Pettigrew injured his left knee and needed season-ending surgery after a Thanksgiving game against Green Bay. When the 2010 season began, Pettigrew was ready. He started all 16 games, catching 71 passes for 722 yards and four touchdowns. The Lions face Chicago in Week 5 and Pettigrew could be featured again as the Bears are surrendering an average of 14.2 Fantasy points per game. Consider Pettigrew a No. 1 Fantasy TE option.
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| 10/2/2011 |
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Pettigrew prominently featured by Lions
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught six passes for 64 yards in Week 4 at Dallas. He was targeted nine times, second on the team only behind WR Calvin Johnson.
Analysis: Pettigrew finished the game with a decent stat line, but it could have been much better. He was targeted in the end zone on a play where the Cowboys committed a defensive holding penalty to keep him from scoring. Pettigrew was coming off a breakout 11-catch, 112-yard effort in Week 3 at Minnesota and is emerging as a strong option in standard 12-team leagues. View him as a potential No. 1 TE option for Week 5 against the division rival Bears.
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| 10/2/2011 |
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Pettigrew good to go in Week 4
News: As anticipated, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) was activated for Week 4 at Dallas. He was limited in practice all week, but had been considered probable.
Analysis: Pettigrew dealt with the same injury leading up to Week 3, but was able to play against Minnesota and went off for 112 yards on 11 catches. The Lions could be in a shootout Week 4 against Dallas, so Pettigrew is worth consideration as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE. The Cowboys have allowed the fifth most Fantasy points (in standard-scoring leagues) to opposing tight ends through the first three weeks of the season. They allowed touchdowns to tight ends in Weeks 1 and 2.
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| 9/30/2011 |
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Pettigrew ready for Dallas game
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) is listed as probable for Week 4 at Dallas. He was limited in practice all week. Pettigrew dealt with the same injury leading up to Week 3, but was able to play against Minnesota and went off for 112 yards on 11 catches.
Analysis: The Lions could be in a shootout Week 4 against Dallas, so Pettigrew is worth consideration as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE. The Cowboys have allowed the fifth most Fantasy points (in standard-scoring leagues) to opposing tight ends through the first three weeks of the season. They allowed touchdowns to tight ends in Weeks 1 and 2.
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| 9/28/2011 |
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Pettigrew limited due to shoulder
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) was limited in practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 4 against the Cowboys. Pettigrew dealt with the same injury leading up to Week 3, but was able to play against Minnesota and went off for 112 yards on 11 catches.
Analysis: It seems all it took for Pettigrew to have a big game was an injury, but that's not the reason he broke out. The Lions were down 20 points at the half Sunday and threw a lot in the second half, so Pettigrew benefited. The Lions could be in a shootout Week 4 against Dallas, so Pettigrew is still worth consideration as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE. The Cowboys have allowed the fifth most Fantasy points (in standard-scoring leagues) to opposing tight ends through the first three weeks of the season. They allowed touchdowns to tight ends in Weeks 1 and 2.
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| 9/25/2011 |
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Pettigrew has career game Week 3
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew erupted in the second half of the Week 3 overtime win at Minnesota. A huge reason the Lions pulled out the victory, Pettigrew consistently got himself open for QB Matthew Stafford. Pettigrew was targeted a team-high 13 times by Stafford in the game and the QB hit him for 11 receptions and 112 yards. Those are both career highs for Pettigrew. He averaged 10.2 yards per catch and had along reception of 27 yards. The only thing Pettigrew did not do in the game was score. Pettigrew led the Lions in catches and yards in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew was one of the more consistent offensive options for the Lions and Stafford in the Week 3 game. He's been limited in the offense for most of the season, but when things got tough Week 3 -- the Lions were scoreless at halftime -- Pettigrew at least got open for Stafford when he needed it and ended up having a career game. Pettigrew should continue to improve his numbers with Stafford under center and we would consider him a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 at Dallas.
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| 9/25/2011 |
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Pettigrew starting in Minnesota
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) is active and in the starting lineup for the Lions in Week 3 at Minnesota. Pettigrew was listed as questionable for the game entering the contest with a shoulder issue. Pettigrew enters Week 3 with 15 catches for 126 yards in his career against Minnesota. The Vikings have yet to allow a TE to score a touchdown this season.
Analysis: While QB Matthew Stafford has gotten off to a great start in 2011, Pettigrew has made a minimal Fantasy impact. He remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3.
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| 9/23/2011 |
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Pettigrew prepping for Week 3
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) returned to practice Friday as the team prepares for Week 3 against the Vikings. However, he is officially listed as questionable. Pettigrew sat out Wednesday and Thursday. Pettigrew enters Week 3 with 15 catches for 126 yards in his career against Minnesota. The Vikings have yet to allow a TE to score a touchdown this season.
Analysis: It's encouraging that Pettigrew finally took the practice field on Friday, but it seems the Lions are listing him as questionable just in case he suffers a setback. Tony Scheffler would start in Pettigrew's absence. Fantasy owners are going to need to have a healthier alternative available just in case Pettigrew can't take the field. While QB Matthew Stafford has gotten off to a great start in 2011, Pettigrew has made a minimal Fantasy impact. He remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3.
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| 9/22/2011 |
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Pettigrew sits out another day
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) missed a second straight day of practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 3 against the Vikings. Pettigrew enters Week 3 with 15 catches for 126 yards in his career against Minnesota. The Vikings have yet to allow a TE to score a touchdown this season.
Analysis: The Lions didn't seem concerned about his injury after it happened Sunday, but the fact he is still sitting out practice is a bit troubling. Fantasy owners are going to need to have a healthier alternative available just in case Pettigrew can't take the field. While QB Matthew Stafford has gotten off to a great start in 2011, Pettigrew has made a minimal Fantasy impact. He remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3.
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| 9/21/2011 |
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Pettigrew misses a practice
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (shoulder) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 3 at Minnesota. Pettigrew injured his shoulder in the second quarter of Sunday's blowout win over the Chiefs and was removed from the game early in the fourth. He finished with just one catch for 7 yards. Pettigrew will look for more Week 3 against the Vikings as he has 15 catches for 126 yards against them in his career. The Vikings have yet to allow a TE to score a touchdown this season, however.
Analysis: The Lions took Pettigrew out of the game because it was a blowout. The Lions don't seem overly concerned about the injury, but just keep tabs on Pettigrew's progress in case something changes. While QB Matthew Stafford has gotten off to a great start in 2011, Pettigrew has made a minimal Fantasy impact. He remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3.
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| 9/19/2011 |
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Pettigrew's shoulder should be fine
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz downplayed the injury concerns for TE Brandon Pettigrew on Monday. Pettigrew injured his shoulder in the second quarter of Sunday's blowout win over the Chiefs and was removed from the game early in the fourth."We took Pettigrew out and (Jeff) Backus out late in that game mainly because we were emptying the bench, and anybody we could have had out of that game, we would have out of that game. Unfortunately we only have 46 guys active, but we had no DNPs in the game."
Analysis: Pettigrew was not much of a factor on Sunday, finishing with just one catch for 7 yards in the Week 2 win. He was targeted four times by QB Matthew Stafford but was used more as a blocker on pass protection. However, the good news is his shoulder injury doesn't appear to be anything serious, so he should be good to go heading into Week 3 against the Vikings. Fantasy owners should continue and monitor his status moving forward, just in case he winds up on the injury report. Consider him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE, if he is healthy enough to play against Minnesota.
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| 9/18/2011 |
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Pettigrew shut down Sunday
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew fought through an apparent shoulder injury Week 2 against the Chiefs, but his play was still uninspiring. He was targeted three times in the 48-3 blowout win, but he hauled in just one pass for 7 yards. Pettigrew nearly caught another one on the play he was injured on.
Analysis: Pettigrew left for a series in the second half but he quickly returned and got right back in the mix. He appeared as a blocker more times than not in the win, and Tony Scheffler ended up scoring the touchdown. He was targeted four times. Pettigrew remains the better receiving threat for the long haul, but his play in the first two weeks has not been something to build on. Still, the offense throws more than most units, so Fantasy owners should consider him to be a solid option Week 3 at Minnesota.
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| 9/16/2011 |
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Pettigrew to run passed Hali, Chiefs?
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew has a tough matchup initially when looking ahead to Week 2 against the Chiefs. Pro Bowl LB Tamba Hali will likely be jamming him at the line of scrimmage in an attempt to slow him down, but the dual-threat TE may have the advantage. Pettigrew has a two-inch height advantage over every Chiefs LB, so he may still see plenty of looks from QB Matthew Stafford. He hauled in four passes for 57 yards last week against the Bucs.
Analysis: Pettigrew is one of the best up-and-coming TEs in the NFL, and Stafford's health may push him over the top in 2011. The Chiefs have tough LBs, but they lost their best defensive back in the opener when Eric Berry suffered a torn ACL. Pettigrew is facing a defense that was gashed by Scott Chandler last week, as he put his name on the map with a five-catch, 63-yard performance that included a pair of touchdowns. Fantasy owners should expect a similar output from Pettigrew yardage-wise, good enough to be considered a low-end No. 1 TE option heading into Sunday.
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| 9/11/2011 |
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Pettigrew comes up short in TD department
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was his team's third-leading receiver behind Calvin Johnson and Nate Burleson in Week 1 against the Bucs. Pettigrew totaled 57 yards on four catches. His longest reception went 25 yards.
Analysis: Pettigrew could have had an even better day against the Bucs, but he dropped a touchdown. He had a few red-zone targets, so that's good QB Matt Stafford is looking his direction down near the goal line. The Lions like to throw the football and Pettigrew could be in for a big year if Stafford stays healthy. Consider starting him in Fantasy Week 2 when the Lions play the Chiefs, who allowed Bills TE Scott Chandler to score twice in Week 1.
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| 9/8/2011 |
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Pettigrew looks to fly past Bucs
News: The Bucs did a good job of keeping Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew in check when the two teams met in Week 15 last season. Pettigrew totaled just two catches for 25 yards as the Lions rolled up 252 passing yards in an overtime win. Pettigrew will be looking for better results his second time around against Tampa Bay in Week 1. The Bucs were one of the best teams at guarding TEs in 2010. TEs averaged just 5.3 Fantasy points per week against the Bucs, which was fifth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Despite playing most of the season with Shaun Hill in 2010, Pettigrew broke out for 722 yards and four touchdowns on 71 catches. He could have even more yards and touchdowns if Matthew Stafford stays healthy in 2011. But don't forget that Calvin Johnson is the Lions' top option in the pass game, and Pettigrew will compete for the No. 2 role with Nate Burleson. He has a lot of potential, but consider Pettigrew a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 1.
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| 8/22/2011 |
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Pettigrew has trust in QB
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew has just one catch for 27 yards through two preseason games, but it's not because of a lack of rapport with QB Matthew Stafford. Often, Stafford fires passes to Pettigrew in tight situations, whether it is practice or a game. "That's a practice thing, being in a comfort zone and knowing that I'm going to be where I'm supposed to be," Pettigrew told the team's official website. "A lot of the time, it's both of us. It's just trust. You know where the open area is, you know where he's going to throw it and you've just got to get there. He's not going to make a bad decision."
Analysis: Pettigrew went on to say that "it's a different ballgame" when Stafford is under center. We definitely understand that since Stafford had some pretty big games in 2010 when he wasn't injured. Calvin Johnson is Stafford's top target, but Pettigrew should be up there with the likes of Nate Burleson and Titus Young as other options in the Lions' passing game in 2011. Feel comfortable with drafting Pettigrew as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE.
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| 8/14/2011 |
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Pettigrew back on the field
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was back on the practice field on Sunday, after missing Friday's game because of an ankle injury. His status for the team's next preseason game (Friday) is yet to be determined, but he should be OK to start the regular season. Coach Jim Schwartz addressed the return after practice in simple terms. "Good to have (Pettigrew) back on the field today," he said.
Analysis: Pettigrew was impressive during the workout, making several quality catches over the middle in short-yardage drills. His role with the team can once again be a big one in 2011, especially if he can stay healthy following a 71-catch campaign. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress leading up to the regular season, though Pettigrew is expected to be fine. He should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day worthy of a id-round pick in most formats.
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| 8/11/2011 |
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Pettigrew out for preseason opener
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's preseason opener against Cincinnati. Pettigrew injured his ankle Wednesday, but coach Jim Schwartz said it was minor.
Analysis: Continue to monitor what happens with Pettigrew, and hopefully he can return to action soon. He caught 71 passes for 722 yards (10.2 avg.) with four touchdowns in 2010, and he should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day. He is worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
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| 8/10/2011 |
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Pettigrew suffers ankle injury
News: TE Brandon Pettigrew has an ankle injury and is day to day. Coach Jim Schwartz said the injury is minor, but wouldn't give a timetable for Pettigrew's return.
Analysis: It sounds as though this is just one of those training camp injuries that a player takes a seat so he doesn't do any more damage. Pettigrew is slimmer this season in hopes of landing more catches and averaging more yards per grab in the Lions' explosive offense. He caught 71 passes for 722 yards (10.2 avg.) with four touchdowns in 2010, a marked improvement over his rookie numbers. Not bad for a guy coming off a torn ACL. Pettigrew fits the bill as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE with some good upside, and he'll have a shot to catch 70 passes again in 2011, hopefully for more touchdowns. Grab him with a pick starting in Round 9.
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| 6/8/2011 |
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TE Pettigrew slims down
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew appeared at a players-only workout on Wednesday with about 10 fewer pounds on him. Pettigrew hopes to play at around 255 pounds, which is where he was when in college. As a rookie, he weighed 270. "I think I picked it up too fast," he said. "I just tried to jump right in to it, trying to get there, and I just think I did it the wrong way. And now I'm pushing it and getting back to what I was used to. I like the 255, being able to move. Strength thrills, but speed kills, and I still think I can get it done in the blocking game as well."
Analysis: Pettigrew caught 71 passes for 722 yards (10.2 avg.) with four touchdowns in 2010, a marked improvement over his rookie numbers. Not bad for a guy coming off a torn ACL. Pettigrew fits the bill as a No. 2 Fantasy TE with some good upside playing in the Lions' potent offense, and he'll have a shot to catch 70 passes again in 2011, hopefully for more touchdowns. Grab him with a late pick.
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| 12/30/2010 |
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Pettigrew setting new Detroit standards
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew's 74 receiving yards Week 16 moved him past Hall of Fame TE Charlie Sanders for the most receiving yards in a season by a tight end in team history. Pettigrew now has 703 receiving yards this season, besting Sanders’ 656 yards in 1969. His 68 catches are also a Lions' record for one season and Pettigrew isn't finished. He gets one more game to add onto his breakout season in Week 17 against the Vikings. "I definitely wanted to be a bigger part of the offense,” Pettigrew said. "I wanted to make plays to help the team. We’re only going to get better (as a team) from here. I’m looking forward to it.” Pettigrew had six catches for 44 yards in Week 3 against Minnesota. The Vikings are allowing TEs to average 6.8 Fantasy points per week and have surrendered five touchdowns to TEs in their last seven games.
Analysis: Pettigrew should be a serious candidate for comeback player of the year. He has bounced back well from a serious knee injury that ended his rookie season prematurely in 2009. He is doing everything the Lions envisioned he would when they drafted him out of Oklahoma State. The only thing is that they figured he would be doing most of his damage playing with QB Matthew Stafford, but injuries have forced Pettigrew to establish rapport with the likes of Shaun Hill and Drew Stanton. Either way, Pettigrew has established himself as a rising star at TE and can be used as a viable Fantasy option for Week 17.
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| 12/26/2010 |
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Pettigrew renews Hill connection
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew resumed his nice relationship with QB Shaun Hill in Week 16 when he caught four passes for 74 yards and a touchdown in a win at Miami. In Hill's eight full games this season, Pettigrew has averaged 66.9 yards a game.
Analysis: Pettigrew's owners had to be smiling when they saw Hill back under center on Sunday, although the matchup against the Dolphins was a tough one on paper. Pettigrew lived up to his sleeper status by catching the touchdown, although his day could have been better as he dropped a few catchable balls. In Week 17, Detroit hosts Minnesota, and Pettigrew should be considered a solid mid-range No. 1 Fantasy WR for that matchup, as long as Hill is under center again.
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| 12/23/2010 |
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Pettigrew with tough matchup
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, who has been in a slump over the last three games with just 75 total yards, might have a tough time breaking out of his funk in Week 16 against Miami. That's because the Dolphins rank as the third-toughest defensive unit versus Fantasy tight ends this season, allowing just an average of 5.5 points a game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has just a pair of catches in each of his last two outings, but his fortunes could change on Sunday if Shaun Hill returns to his starting QB spot. In the seven full starts that Hill made earlier this season, Pettigrew averaged six catches for 65.9 yards. If Hill does end up being named the starter for Week 16, think about using Pettigrew as a nice sleeper low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE, even with this tough matchup.
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| 12/19/2010 |
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Pettigrew stuck in a funk
News: The Lions generated 252 yards of passing offense in a 23-20 overtime win at Tampa Bay in Week 15, but TE Brandon Pettigrew had very little to do with Detroit's aerial assault. He was targeted just three times, and he made two catches for 25 yards. Over his last three games combined, Pettigrew has made only nine catches for a total of 75 yards with no touchdowns.
Analysis: Pettigrew entered Week 15 as the 12th-ranked tight end in terms of Fantasy points, but he has not produced like even a low-end No. 1 TE over the past few weeks. He is capable of putting up big numbers, but in any given week, the Lions can rely heavily on WR Calvin Johnson, just as they did in Week 15 (10 catches, 152 receiving yards). While Pettigrew is viable as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE, owners should look into other options first before making him active for Week 16.
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| 12/17/2010 |
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Lions praise TE Pettigrew
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew's success catching passes over the middle will be key Week 15 against an injury-depleted Bucs secondary. Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan praised Pettigrew’s play. “(Pettigrew’s) had a terrific year for us,” Linehan said. “You’re looking at a kid that’s going to be a heck of a player." The Bucs are allowing TEs to average 6.3 Fantasy points per week. However, the Bucs have allowed three scores to TEs in their last six games.
Analysis: Pettigrew hasn't scored in five straight games, but you have to give the guy credit for having a productive season despite the QB carousel in Detroit. Drew Stanton is likely to start again Week 15, but there is an outside chance Shaun Hill returns from injury. It would be better if Hill starts, but Pettigrew is still a viable Fantasy TE for Week 15 since the Bucs secondary is a little suspect.
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| 12/16/2010 |
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Pettigrew looking to finish strong
News: Brandon Pettigrew has already set a Lions team record for receptions in a season by a tight end with 62, but he only added two catches to his total in a Week 14 win over Green Bay. Though Pettigrew ranks third among all tight ends in targets with 93, he had the ball thrown to him only three times against the Packers. Lions QB Drew Stanton was rattled all day, and he attempted only 22 passes, but he could be replaced by Shaun Hill (finger) for Week 15 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Buccaneers' pass defense is merely middle-of-the-pack, so the biggest barrier to a comeback game for Pettigrew is the continued struggles of Stanton. If Hill starts, that could be a boon to Pettigrew's owners, but regardless of who the quarterback is, he has proven to be one of the top Fantasy TEs this season. Owners can use Pettigrew as a No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 15.
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| 12/12/2010 |
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Pettigrew has worst game in weeks
News: TE Brandon Pettigrew failed to amass 30 receiving yards for the first time in five weeks, as the Lions defeated the Packers, 7-3, in Week 14. Pettigrew was targeted only three times by QB Drew Stanton, and he caught two passes for just 14 yards. It was his lowest yardage total since Week 8 against the Redskins, when he caught two passes for eight yards. It was also the fifth straight week that Pettigrew went without a touchdown.
Analysis: The Lions' passing offense is not the same as it was when Matthew Stafford and Shaun Hill were leading the team, so Fantasy owners can't expect too much production from Pettigrew as long as Stanton is at the helm. There aren't many reliable TE options out there, but Pettigrew's owners may want to look into other alternatives for Week 15.
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| 12/8/2010 |
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Pettigrew poised to rebound
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew had one of his least productive games of the year in Week 13, amassing only 36 yards in a 24-20 loss to Chicago. In Week 14, he faces a Packers squad that he has performed well against in the past. In Week 4, Pettigrew made eight catches for 91 yards. The eight receptions equal a season high for Pettigrew, while the yardage total was his second-highest this year. Only five teams have allowed more Fantasy points to tight ends than the Packers this season, so Pettigrew stands a chance to repeat or exceed his Week 4 performance.
Analysis: Pettigrew has gone four games without a score, but he still remains one of the better TE options in Fantasy. Especially with a favorable matchup in store, owners can use Pettigrew as a No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 14.
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| 12/5/2010 |
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Pettigrew limited by Bears
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew led the Lions in receptions Week 13 in a 24-20 loss to Chicago. The starting tight end caught five passes for 36 yards in the game. He did not score and his long grab went for 14 yards. Pettigrew was targeted a team-high nine times in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew had his lowest yardage total since Week 9 against the Jets, though he scored a touchdown in that game. That makes the Week 13 contest Pettigrew's worst game since Week 1 of the year. That also means he's been pretty darn consistent this year for Detroit. He remains a top option in the passing game, even with Drew Stanton throwing the passes. Pettigrew can remain a starter in Fantasy heading into Week 14 against the Packers.
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| 12/3/2010 |
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Pettigrew looking for more vs. Bears
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew was a different player the last time he faced the Bears back in Week 1 in Chicago. He caught just one pass in that game for 6 yards but was one week away from breaking out. Pettigrew caught seven passes for 108 yards Week 2 and hasn't looked back, clearly playing as a No. 1 Fantasy TE this year. Pettigrew heads into the Week 13 rematch against the Bears second in the NFL among tight ends with 55 receptions. That is the most catches in a season by a Lions tight end.
Analysis: Pettigrew remains a solid Fantasy option but he hasn't scored in three weeks. The Bears' defense, on the other hand, has been top-notch of late. They do well at limiting the use of tight ends in the passing game and that could be a poor sign for Pettigrew, especially with Drew Stanton making his first start for Detroit. Pettigrew should sit just outside the pack of No. 1 Fantasy TEs for Week 13.
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| 11/25/2010 |
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Pettigrew goes for 67 yards
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught five of the seven passes sent his way in Week 12 vs. the Patriots for 67 yards. He didn't score. Pettigrew had a solid second half after getting just 28 yards in the first half, but he struggled to gain yardage after the catch. On the plus side, he was on the field for nearly all of the Lions' offensive plays.
Analysis: Pettigrew is the rare healthy Fantasy tight end with potential to deliver good stats every week. His matchup vs. the Bears in Week 13 is real tough -- Chicago hasn't allowed a touchdown to a tight end all season and Pettigrew had just a 6-yard catch in the matchup against them in Week 1. He's not perfect for next week, but you have to figure that with all of the tight end injuries around the league, he's reliable to some extent.
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| 11/24/2010 |
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Pettigrew to pop the Pats?
News: Brandon Pettigrew faces the Patriots on Thursday in the Lions' annual Thanksgiving Day home game, and he could do well. Tight ends have scored in half of New England's games this season and they're averaging 55 yards per game on average. However, well-known receiving tight ends like Antonio Gates, Dustin Keller, Todd Heap have scored and posted good yardage against New England. Last week Jacob Tamme caught seven passes for 60 yards while teammate Gijon Robinson hauled in a touchdown. Pettigrew has seen at least eight targets in each of his last two games (both with QB Shaun Hill) and has scored and/or racked up at least 50 yards in six of his last seven games.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been a fairly reliable tight end for Fantasy owners this season, and there's no doubt that he'll be considered to start in most leagues. With his matchup good and other receivers on the Lions drawing coverage away, we think Pettigrew is worth putting in your active lineup as a No. 1 Fantasy TE. Make sure he's active before the game kicks off at 12:30 p.m. ET on Thursday.
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| 11/21/2010 |
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Pettigrew has eight catches
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew had a solid game in Week 11 at Dallas on Sunday. Pettigrew had eight catches to lead Detroit, and he finished with 75 receiving yards. He had nine targets, and he outplayed Tony Scheffler, who finished with one catch for 10 yards on one target.
Analysis: Pettigrew continues to be a solid Fantasy TE in all leagues. He has a great rapport with QB Shaun Hill, and he's worth using as a No. 1 option against New England in Week 12 on Thanksgiving Day.
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| 11/18/2010 |
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Pettigrew hopes for new streak
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew is hoping to start a new touchdown streak in Week 11 at Dallas after his two-game streak was snapped in Week 10 against Buffalo. Pettigrew had four catches for 50 yards against the Bills, but he had gone two games in a row with a touchdown. His five Fantasy points against Buffalo was his lowest production since Week 3. The Cowboys have allowed four touchdowns to opposing tight ends with three reaching at least nine Fantasy points.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been consistent all season and should remain active in the majority of Fantasy leagues despite the difficult matchup. Consider him a low-end No. 1 option against the Cowboys.
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| 11/14/2010 |
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Hill gets Pettigrew involved
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, who wasn't a consistent part of the passing attack in the last two games with Matthew Stafford under center, catching a total of five passes for 26 yards, was more involved with Shaun Hill back under center Week 10 at Buffalo, catching four passes for 40 yards. He could have been even more involved than that. He was targeted eight times, second-most on the team.
Analysis: Pettigrew caught a touchdown pass in each of those two games with Stafford at quarterback, so Sunday's performance was technically worse for Fantasy purposes. Still, the more involved he is in the offense, the better off he'll be. Hill tends to lean on his tight ends more than Stafford does, even getting Tony Scheffler involved with eight targets Sunday. Pettigrew is capable of topping 50 yards every week with a guy like Hill throwing him the ball, making him worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy TE at Dallas in Week 11.
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| 11/11/2010 |
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Pettigrew could step up Sunday
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, who has scored touchdowns in back-to-back games but has only five catches for 26 yards during that stretch, will be back working with QB Shaun Hill, who is returning from a broken left arm, Week 10 at Buffalo. Pettigrew averaged 6.4 catches for 66.0 yards in the five games Hill started from Week 2 to Week 6. He also gets the benefit of facing a Bills defense that has allowed 12.0 points per game to tight ends, most in the NFL.
Analysis: The Bills technically rank sixth against the pass, allowing 193.4 yards per game, but they have only one interception and 12 sacks. You have to think the reason they rank so high against the pass is because teams have so much success running the ball against them, averaging a league-high 178.2 yards per game. They've allowed an average of 265.8 passing yards over their last four games, so the trend is changing. With Hill back under center, Pettigrew could once again be a prime target in what should be a high-scoring game. Get him active as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
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| 11/7/2010 |
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Pettigrew scores another touchdown
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew hauled in a 10-yard TD pass from QB Matthew Stafford in the first quarter of the Week 9 23-20 overtime loss to the Jets. The tight end finished the game with three receptions for 18 yards and was targeted by Stafford five times.
Analysis: Pettigrew has had a couple big-time games this season with 91 receiving yards Week 4 and 108 Week 2. He hasn't had monster production in his last four games but he does have three touchdowns over that span. Stafford is looking more to him in the end zone and that is definitely increasing his Fantasy value. Pettigrew has been solid this year no matter who is throwing the football so continue considering him in many leagues in Week 10 at Buffalo. The Bills are one of the worst teams in the NFL at stopping opposing tight ends. They allowed another TD by a TE in their Week 9 game against Chicago.
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| 11/7/2010 |
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Pettigrew's ankle ready for Week 9
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) will play Week 9 against the Jets. Pettigrew had his second touchdown in three games in Week 8 against the Redskins. The Jets have allowed two touchdowns to TEs in seven games this season and are holding them to 4.7 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for fourth lowest in the NFL. He was limited during the practice week but is expected to be fully healthy for the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew is healthy for Week 9 but there is always the possibility that he steps wrong on that ankle and suffers a setback. Just be cognizant of that. That said, Pettigrew's matchup against the Jets isn't a solid one. Pettigrew is definitely a promising TE prospect, but consider him more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 9 now that he's healthy.
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| 11/5/2010 |
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Pettigrew probable for Week 9
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was limited all week in practice, but he is listed as probable for the Week 9 game against the Jets. Pettigrew had his second touchdown in three games in Week 8 against the Redskins. The Jets have allowed two touchdowns to TEs in seven games this season and are holding them to 4.7 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for fourth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: As long as Pettigrew doesn't suffer a setback with his ankle, then he should take the field in Week 9. However, the matchup isn't a favorable one. Pettigrew is definitely a promising TE prospect, but consider him more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 9.
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| 11/4/2010 |
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Pettigrew limited Thursday
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was limited in practice Thursday for the second straight day as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. N.Y. Jets. Pettigrew had his second touchdown in three games in Week 8 against the Redskins. The Jets have allowed two touchdowns to TEs in seven games this season and are holding them to 4.7 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for fourth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: As long as Pettigrew doesn't suffer a setback with his ankle, then he should take the field in Week 9. However, the matchup isn't a favorable one. Pettigrew is definitely a promising TE prospect, but consider him more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 9.
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| 11/3/2010 |
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Pettigrew dealing with ankle injury
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. N.Y. Jets. Pettigrew had his second touchdown in three games in Week 8 against the Redskins. The Jets have allowed two touchdowns to TEs in seven games this season and are holding them to 4.7 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for fourth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: As long as Pettigrew doesn't suffer a setback with his ankle, then he should take the field in Week 9. However, the matchup isn't a favorable one. Pettigrew is definitely a promising TE prospect, but consider him more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 9.
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| 10/31/2010 |
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Pettigrew scores, does little else
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was the recipient of a short-yardage touchdown from Matthew Stafford and otherwise contributed as many first-half penalties as receptions in the game (two, for 8 yards). Pettigrew also left the game for a spell with an injury but came back in.
Analysis: Pettigrew should be fine for the Lions' next game against the Jets. Continue to treat him as more of a red-zone threat good for a touchdown more than anything else, though if the Jets end up hounding Calvin Johnson, that will open up some opportunities for him. He's startable in Week 9, but expectations shouldn't be through the roof.
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| 10/29/2010 |
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Pettigrew to pop vs. Redskins?
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew will take on a Redskins defense in Week 8 that's been pretty decent against players at his position. There's a three-week span from Weeks 3-5 where they gave up a touchdown to opposing tight ends regularly, but they've been tight since then. No one tight end has had more than 52 yards against them, a mark Pettigrew has exceeded three times in six times this season.
Analysis: Pettigrew will provide a matchup nightmare to the Redskins, and with Matthew Stafford back under center and seeing his burly tight end perform well with Shaun Hill, chances are he'll follow the same cues and lean on him. Pettigrew is worth starting as a middle- to low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 8.
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| 10/17/2010 |
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Pettigrew leads Lions receivers
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught a team-high seven passes in Week 6 at the N.Y. Giants. He was targeted a team-high 12 times by a pair of quarterbacks as Shaun Hill had to be relieved by Drew Stanton late in the second quarter due to a forearm injury and did not return to the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew had at least seven passes for the third time this season and has caught at least six passes in four of his last five games. He has emerged as a viable No. 2 TE option, useful as a pinch starter during the bye weeks or as an injury replacement option. Much of his success, however, has come while regular starter Matthew Stafford has been sidelined due to injury. Stafford is expected to return after his team's bye in Week 7, but we expect the Lions to continue to try to feature Pettigrew as part of their pass offense.
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| 10/14/2010 |
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Pettigrew in for tough time?
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew will face the New York Giants for the first time in his career in Week 6 on the road. The Giants enter the game ranked first in the NFL against the pass. They have allowed just 146 passing yards per game. Pettigrew enters play coming off a four-catch, 26-yard effort with a touchdown against the Rams in Week 5.
Analysis: Pettigrew has put up surprisingly solid numbers over the past month, catching at least six passes in three of his last four games with 90-plus yards in two of those games. The Giants have allowed just one TE to score or gain more than 50 yards in a game so far this season, however, and that was Colts TE Dallas Clark in Week 2. Despite Pettigrew's solid run, this may not be the best matchup for him. View him as little more than a No. 2 TE to be used as an injury or bye-week replacement this week.
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| 10/10/2010 |
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Pettigrew finally scores
News: TE Brandon Pettigrew was targeted just five times in the Lions' 44-6 thrashing of the Rams in Week 5, but he made one of the game's most important receptions. With 17 seconds remaining in the first half, Pettigrew hauled in a three-yard pass from QB Shaun Hill, which extended the Lions' lead to 24-6. The touchdown, Pettigrew's first of the year, came just 29 seconds after a touchdown pass to WR Calvin Johnson was challenged and reversed because he couldn't get both feet in bounds. Pettigrew finished with four catches for 26 yards.
Analysis: It was far from Pettigrew's most productive day of the year, at least in terms of yardage, but he still found a way to help Fantasy owners by finding the end zone. He may not rack up big yardage totals every week, as he has to share the ball with Johnson, Jahvid Best, Tony Scheffler and others. Still, Pettigrew is a large enough part of the Lions' passing attack to be a solid No. 2 Fantasy TE, and that will be the case, even with a tough matchup at the Giants looming in Week 6.
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| 10/6/2010 |
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Pettigrew becoming top TE
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew came close to his second 100-plus yard performance in Week 4, hauling in eight catches for 91 yards against a solid Green Bay pass defense. The strong showing catapulted Pettigrew up the rankings for Fantasy tight ends, as he currently ranks 11th in Fantasy points. In Week 5, the Lions face the Rams, who have been much less successful in defending the pass than the Packers. St. Louis has allowed opponents an average of 230.8 passing yards per week, which is the 12th-highest average in the NFL.
Analysis: With Pettigrew already ranking fourth among all tight ends in targets with 30, Sunday could be a very big day for him. Fantasy TEs have not fared well against the Rams so far, but they have been targeted an average of just five times per week. The Lions have made more pass attempts than any other team this year, and Pettigrew is likely to get his share of targets. He is a solid start for Week 5.
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| 10/3/2010 |
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Pettigrew hauls in eight catches
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew tied teammate Calvin Johnson for a team-high 11 targets in Week 4 against the Packers. Pettigrew, however, went on for a team-high eight catches and 91 yards. He didn't find the end zone, however. Pettigrew has six or more catches in three straight games. He has 22 catches for 249 yards on the season.
Analysis: Don't blink now, but Pettigrew is starting to look like the player he was before messing up his knee last season. QB Shaun Hill, who is replacing the injured Matthew Stafford (shoulder), is leaning a lot on Pettigrew and that can only help in his development. It's unfortunate Pettigrew has no touchdowns, but he is becoming a more reliable Fantasy option. The Lions take on the Rams in Week 5. St. Louis has actually defended TEs pretty well in 2010, so Pettigrew is more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 5.
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| 9/28/2010 |
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Pettigrew needs to avoid drops
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew is doing well in 2010 coming off major knee surgery, but he hasn't been completely mistake-free. Pettigrew has dropped four passes in his first three games, including a touchdown in Week 1 and two in Week 3 against the Vikings. He does have a 100-yard performance this season and looks to blow past his Week 4 opponents -- the Packers. Although, it is going to be a challenge. The Packers have allowed opposing TEs to manage just 10 catches for 122 yards and one touchdown. Bears TE Greg Olsen has been the most successful against Green Bay, totaling five catches for 64 yards and a score in Week 3.
Analysis: Pettigrew isn't the only prolific pass-catching TE in Detroit. Veteran Tony Scheffler has proven to be a viable option from the TE position as well. Although, Pettigrew probably has the better long-term potential at this stage of their careers. That is why Detroit desperately wants him to be a big factor in the passing game every week. Pettigrew faced Green Bay once last season before getting injured. He had no catches, however, in that game in Green Bay -- a 26-0 win for the Packers. Consider Pettigrew a potential bye-week replacement for Fantasy Week 4.
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| 9/26/2010 |
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Pettigrew very active again
News: In Week 3 at the Vikings, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew wasn't quite as productive as he was in Week 2, but he had his second straight productive performance. A week after he caught seven passes for 108 yards against the Eagles, he caught six passes for 44 yards in a 24-10 loss. He was targeted a team-high nine times (tied with follow TE Tony Scheffler). Pettigrew had plenty of open spaces up the middle and only he and fellow tight end Scheffler had any success catching passes from QB Shaun Hill (who got the start with Matthew Stafford sidelined due to injury).
Analysis: Pettigrew and Scheffler looked to have a tough matchup against a Vikings defense that had allowed the second fewest Fantasy points to opposing tight ends through the first two weeks of the season. However, the Vikings defense -- a very aggressive unit -- allowed the sixth most points to opposing tight ends a season ago. A lot of pressure on Hill led to a lot of quick outlet passes to his tight ends. Pettigrew is still a bit of a reach to trust as a No. 1 TE, but is worth scooping up off the waiver wire in deeper leagues as a No. 2 TE or bye-week replacement option for Week 4 at Green Bay against another aggressive defense.
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| 9/24/2010 |
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Can Pettigrew repeat success?
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew may find it hard to repeat his Week 2 success in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. Pettigrew, who caught seven passes for 108 yards in Week 2 against Philadelphia, will face a Vikings team that has allowed the second fewest Fantasy points to opposing tight ends through the first two weeks of the season.
Analysis: The Vikings have allowed a combined five catches for 26 yards to opposing tight ends through the first two weeks of the season. Pettigrew burst onto the scene in Week 2 against an Eagles team that left wide open holes up the middle of the field in a 35-32 shootout, but we don't anticipate those same holes being there in Week 3. Pettigrew certainly won't be catching the Vikings by surprise the way he caught the Eagles by surprise. He did seem to have a good rapport with QB Shaun Hill, who will once again be the starter in Week 3, but we don't recommend Pettigrew outside of desperate situations.
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| 9/19/2010 |
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Pettigrew has breakout performance
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew made a strong case to hold onto his starting job in Week 2 against the Eagles. After being outperformed by TE Tony Scheffler in Week 1, Pettigrew was a shining star for Detroit in a 35-32 loss to the Eagles. Pettigrew had the first 100-yard game of his career, totaling seven catches for 108 yards. He was targeted by QB Shaun Hill eight times. Only Jahvid Best had more receiving yards (154) for the Lions in Week 2.
Analysis: Pettigrew had one catch for 6 yards in Week 1 against the Bears and it looked as though he wasn't fully recovered from a knee injury that ended his rookie season in 2009. In Week 2, Pettigrew looked like an All-Pro tight end and completely healthy. Detroit drafted Pettigrew last season as a big-time receiving threat for Matthew Stafford. But with Stafford (shoulder) out indefinitely, it looks as though Hill might get a lot of mileage out of the former Oklahoma State standout. After this breakout performance, Pettigrew is going to garner a lot of attention in Fantasy. But we say curb your expectations until Pettigrew plays like this on a consistent basis. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3 against the Vikings. Pettigrew had six catches for 63 yards in two games against Minnesota last season.
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| 9/14/2010 |
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Pettigrew trying to get back job
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew went into Week 1 against the Bears as Detroit's starting tight end, but by the end of the game, he was outplayed by veteran TE Tony Scheffler, who had six catches. Pettigrew looks to get back into the good graces of the coaching staff heading into Week 2 against the Eagles, but it is no easy feat. The Eagles held Packers TE Jermichael Finley to four catches for 47 yards in Week 1. However, Philadelphia was one of the worst teams in the NFL covering tight ends in 2009, allowing 102 receptions for 1,090 yards and nine touchdowns to tight ends.
Analysis: Pettigrew had so much promise as a rookie in 2009 before a serious knee injury ended his season. He has been slow to recover and that is why Detroit brought in Scheffler. It seems Pettigrew still needs some time to get back into rhythm, so leave him on your Fantasy bench until he re-emerges as the pass-catching threat he looked like as a rookie.
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| 9/12/2010 |
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Pettigrew has one catch
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew had one catch for 6 yards in his Week 1 game Sunday at Chicago. Pettigrew, who returned in Week 1 despite injuring his knee late in 2009, is now the No. 2 TE behind Tony Scheffler. Pettigrew only had two targets in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has minimal Fantasy value now that Scheffler is in the mix for the Lions. Ignore Pettigrew in all leagues in Week 2 against the Eagles.
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| 8/29/2010 |
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Pettigrew continues comeback
News: Lions second-year TE Brandon Pettigrew continues to make strides in his comeback from last year's knee injury. Pettigrew had one catch for 16 yards in Saturday's third preseason game against Cleveland. It was the only time he was targeted in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has now become the No. 2 TE in Detroit behind starter Tony Scheffler. He can still make plays for the Lions this season, but Pettigrew has minimal Fantasy value in standard leagues. He should only be owned in deep keeper leagues heading into 2010.
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| 8/22/2010 |
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Pettigrew takes the field
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew played in the team's preseason contest at Denver on Saturday. He didn't record a catch but was targeted once by QB Matthew Stafford.
Analysis: It's a win that Pettigrew was able to play after tearing his ACL last November. However, he's not expected to put up big stats this year. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters.
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| 8/17/2010 |
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Pettigrew eager to play
News: Brandon Pettigrew hopes to be a key part of the NFL's most improved offense this season. First, he has to get healthy. The tight end is recovering from a knee injury that prematurely ended his rookie season with the Detroit Lions. He says he thinks he'll be ready for Detroit's regular-season opener Sept. 12 in Chicago. Pettigrew practices once a day even when his teammates have double sessions, and is held out entirely on other days. He didn't play in Saturday's preseason opener in Pittsburgh. Coach Jim Schwartz says Pettigrew will probably make no more than a token appearance in Saturday's exhibition game in Denver. "I think there is big stuff about to happen on this offense," Pettigrew said. "With all the guys we've got out there now, the sky is the limit."
Analysis: Detroit is definitely taking a cautious approach with Pettigrew since he is expected to be a focal part of the offense for years to come. "I think he is right on track with his recovery, and he's looked good when he's been out there," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said. "Because of the time he missed last year, it took him a while to get on track, but there were a few games last season where he was playing as well as any tight end in the NFL." He is coming off a major knee injury, so the more rest, the less wear and tear he inflicts on his knee. "I know that I have to take things slow, because this wasn't a soft injury," he said. "I don't want to hurt this again." Pettigrew totaled 30 catches for 346 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games last season before tearing his ACL. Consider him an injury-risk No. 2 Fantasy TE on Draft Day.
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| 8/12/2010 |
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Pettigrew to be 'major part of offense'
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew hasn't been full-go from the outset of training camp as he continues to rehab from a knee injury, but he has been practicing with the team and coach Jim Schwartz says Pettigrew is making progress. "He has been very impressive at times during camp," Schwartz said. "I don’t think he’s had any setbacks. We’ve been happy with his rehab. He rehabbed well, and it looks like he’s going to be a major part of the offense.”
Analysis: The Lions drafted Pettigrew in 2009 knowing his pass-catching prowess from his days at Oklahoma State. They also figured he would be a great target for QB Matthew Stafford. Pettigrew was having a solid rookie season before a torn ACL ended his season prematurely. It's not an easy injury to come back from, so we can't be overly optimistic about Pettigrew just yet. It's great to hear his coach is talking him up, but be cautious and draft Pettigrew as more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
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| 8/1/2010 |
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Pettigrew comes off the PUP list
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was activated from the physically unable to perform list and took part in the morning practice on Sunday. Head coach Jim Schwartz said Pettigrew will be limited to one practice per day while he is still rehabbing his knee. "I'm still just slowly easing myself into it," Pettigrew told the official team website. "I'm not on restrictions unless I feel like I can't do something."
Analysis: As long as Pettigrew doesn't suffer a setback, he could be ready for the start of the season. That's good. But the Lions added Tony Scheffler via trade from the Broncos, and he'll eat into Pettigrew's potential reps. That's bad. Pettigrew had 30 catches for 346 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie in 2009 before tearing his ACL. The continued growth of QB Matthew Stafford will only help Pettigrew, but he remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy TE not worth drafting in standard Fantasy play.
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| 7/31/2010 |
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Pettigrew not ready to go
News: The Lions have placed second-year TE Brandon Pettigrew on the PUP list. He is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered last November. Pettigrew started 11 games a rookie last season, hauling in 30 passes for 346 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Pettigrew figured to play a big role for the Lions this season, helping to aid the development of fellow second-year QB Matthew Stafford. Unfortunately, he could possibly miss the start of the season. The addition of Tony Scheffler gives the Lions a little cushion to let Pettigrew go through rehab, but the Lions want Pettigrew back as soon as possible. Continue to monitor his status heading into training camp. When healthy, Pettigrew will be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
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| 7/2/2010 |
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Pettigrew will be medically cleared
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee, will be medically cleared to resume full activities for the start of training camp July 31. "We are doing a lot of different stuff and we've added a few pieces to our offense, and it's definitely important to go ahead and mix it together and see what works together and just get in there together," he said. The Lions likely will bring Pettigrew along slowly. But if they want to run the two tight end sets as much as they are planning with new addition Tony Scheffler, they'll need to get Pettigrew into form quickly.
Analysis: This is a good sign that Pettigrew will be ready for the start of training camp. We can see him being a big part of the Lions offense, but he will likely open the season behind Scheffler as the No. 2 TE. Don't plan on drafting Pettigrew in the majority of Fantasy leagues this season, but he is someone to monitor in case you need a bye-week replacement. If he starts out the season playing well then add Pettigrew off the waiver wire.
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| 6/24/2010 |
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Pettigrew works hard in rehab
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew's knee continues to improve. Coach Jim Schwartz believes Pettigrew has worked hard to get back on the field. "He's made great progress on his rehab, and if these workouts were a week later, you'd probably see him in seven-on-seven drills. He's close," Schwartz said Thursday. On Wednesday, Pettigrew was limited to individual drills during minicamp.
Analysis: There's a chance Pettigrew could open training camp on the PUP list, and he could also miss the start of the season. The addition of Tony Scheffler gives the Lions a little cushion to let Pettigrew go through rehab, but the Lions want Pettigrew back as soon as possible. Continue to monitor his status heading into training camp. When healthy, Pettigrew will be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
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| 6/23/2010 |
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Pettigrew still limited in drills
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (knee) was limited to individual drills during Wednesday's minicamp practice. Pettigrew suffered a torn ACL on Thanksgiving Day last year.
Analysis: There's a chance Pettigrew could open training camp on the PUP list, and he could also miss the start of the season. The addition of Tony Scheffler gives the Lions a little cushion to let Pettigrew go through rehab, but the Lions want Pettigrew back as soon as possible. Continue to monitor his status heading into training camp. When healthy, Pettigrew will be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
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| 6/8/2010 |
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Pettigrew could end up on PUP list
News: According to a report on mlive.com, Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew, who suffered a torn ACL on Thanksgiving Day last year, has looked good in offseason workouts but isn't close to being cleared for contact. The Lions will likely put him on the PUP list for the start of training camp and then assess his rehab before activating him.
Analysis: The addition of Tony Scheffler gives the Lions a little cushion to let Pettigrew go through rehab, but they're planning to run a lot of two-tight end formations in their offense so they'll want Pettigrew back as soon as possible. Continue to monitor his status heading into training camp. When healthy, Pettigrew will be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
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| 5/27/2010 |
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Pettigrew continues individual work
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew participated in individual drills once again during the team's recent OTA practice, about six months after tearing his left ACL in a game last season.
Analysis: We love Pettigrew's upside, but coming off of a major knee injury isn't when players usually post eye-popping statistics. Furthermore, the Lions added TE Tony Scheffler this offseason to give them options with a two-TE formation (and also ensure that they'll have a productive tight end), but he's sidelined with a foot injury. Because of Scheffler hampering Pettigrew's potential, a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues is all the second-year TE is worth at this juncture.
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| 5/18/2010 |
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Pettigrew working individually
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew participated in individual drills during the team's first OTA practice Tuesday, a little less than six months after tearing his left ACL in a game last season. This is the second time he was able to suit up and do drills on his own this offseason.
Analysis: We love Pettigrew's upside, but coming off of a major knee injury isn't when players usually post eye-popping statistics. Furthermore, the Lions added TE Tony Scheffler this offseason to give them options with a two-TE formation (and also ensure that they'll have a productive tight end), but he's sidelined with a foot injury. Because of Scheffler hampering Pettigrew's potential, a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues is all the second-year TE is worth at this juncture.
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| 5/13/2010 |
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Pettigrew still limited
News: The Detroit News reports Lions TE Tony Scheffler wore a boot on his right leg and didn't participate in Thursday's organized team activity, but he said it was "just a precautionary deal" and "nothing bad." Lions coach Jim Schwartz agreed that it was just a precaution. "He's got an irritated foot," Schwartz said. "We just put him in the boot for a little while. He'll probably be back soon. Nothing big. Just a little bit of irritation. ... He's fine. It's going to be a short-term thing, but how soon, I don't know. But we'll get him back as soon as we can." Meanwhile, TE Brandon Pettigrew (knee) was limited to individual drills.
Analysis: Scheffler, if healthy, could get the chance to start with Pettigrew coming off a knee injury last season. But since the two will likely share playing time and targets, consider Pettigrew a No. 2 Fantasy TE. He is only worth a late-round pick in deep leagues on Draft Day.
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| 5/7/2010 |
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Pettigrew does individual drills
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew took part in individual drills and showed some agility during the team's current OTA, according to the Detroit Free-Press. Pettigrew is coming back from torn knee ligaments suffered late last season. Head coach Jim Schwartz said he's hopeful that Pettigrew will be able to participate in training camp with little to no restrictions. He said he began running a month ago and credits being a quick healer to his successful rehab thus far. Also, Pettigrew said he is happy with the addition of TE Tony Scheffler and the concept of two-tight end sets for the Lions.
Analysis: It sounds like Pettigrew has a shot to be ready for training camp, which improves his outlook for the regular season. But there's still the issue of Scheffler in Detroit, and until he falls off the field Pettigrew's stats will be limited. We love the upside of the big tight end from Oklahoma State, but we might not see big totals from in 2010. Because of Scheffler hampering Pettigrew's potential, a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues is all the second-year TE is worth at this juncture.
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| 4/19/2010 |
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Lions add insurance for Pettigrew
News: The Eagles acquired LB Ernie Sims in a three-way deal with Detroit and Denver on Monday. Philadelphia dealt a fifth-round pick to the Broncos, who are sending tight end Tony Scheffler and a seventh-round pick to the Lions. Scheffler, a Michigan native, told the Denver Post that he's excited to join the Lions and reportedly had to tell Lions head coach Jim Schwartz that he wouldn't ask for a contract extension this season. This while second-year TE Brandon Pettigrew continued to rehab from torn left knee ligaments this offseason.
Analysis: Scheffler is expected to be a short-term replacement for Pettigrew and at least a one-year short-area option for Matthew Stafford. He's in a contract year, so he could be one-and-done in Detroit, which is a relief for long-term Pettigrew owners. But obviously the Lions wouldn't make this move if they thought Pettigrew would be ready for the start of the season. And even if he is ready, some of the opportunities Pettigrew would have had will go to Scheffler. Not good news for the huge tight end, which makes him nothing more than a late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues at this juncture.
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| 4/13/2010 |
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Lions TE Pettigrew making progress
News: Lions second-year TE Brandon Pettigrew told the team's official Web site that his rehab from a torn knee ligament has been going well. Pettigrew tore his ACL against the Packers on Thanksgiving Day last season. He hasn't had a setback and has begun running on the knee, which has caused a little swelling. He also is waiting to start running routes just to make sure he gets healthy first. "I can work on stationary catching, but other than that, I'm just trying to get my strength back in my legs," he said. "That takes time."
Analysis: Pettigrew is a deep sleeper this summer because of his potential, immense size and the promise of the Lions' pass game. But his knee first must prove that it can withstand the pounding of playing football week after week -- until then he's not going to get much of a chance to post big stat totals. We like the guy a lot, but not until he's healthy. We hope to see him in a preseason game before the start of the regular season but because there's a chance he could miss some games he's really not worth drafting outside of the deepest of leagues. We'll keep you posted on him.
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| 11/27/2009 |
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Pettigrew's season is over
News: Updating a previous report, the Lions have confirmed that TE Brandon Pettigrew will miss the rest of the 2009 season with a knee injury that will require surgery. Speculation is that Pettigrew tore his left ACL.
Analysis: Pettigrew was beginning to emerge as a top target in the Lions offense before the injury. He should be dropped in all seasonal leagues since he won't play again this year, but owners in dynasty and keeper formats might opt to hold on to him. One problem: If Pettigrew did suffer a torn ACL, then his return to the field might not come until during the 2010 preseason, which could limit his ability to be at full go for the start of next season. As for this season, Casey FitzSimmons and Will Heller are expected to pick up his reps but neither are reliable Fantasy options. The Lions play at the Bengals in Week 13.
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| 11/27/2009 |
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No update yet on Pettigrew
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz did not know the severity of the knee injury tight end Brandon Pettigrew suffered early in Thursday's game vs. the Packers, saying only there was swelling in the rookie's left knee after the game. Pettigrew underwent an MRI on Friday after faling awkwardly early on in the Lions' loss on Thanksgiving Day.
Analysis: Pettigrew was beginning to emerge as a top target in the Lions offense before the injury, which appears to be serious if there's swelling in the knee. We'll learn more about it and deliver the latest when we get it. Casey FitzSimmons and Will Heller are expected to pick up his reps in the interim.
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| 11/26/2009 |
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Rookie TE Pettigrew hurts knee
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was helped off the field and into the locker room early in the first quarter after falling awkwardly on the team's opening drive. Immediately after falling to the ground Pettigrew clutched his left knee and writhed in pain, and he couldn't put much weight on it as he walked off the field. He had a 12-yard catch on the drive.
Analysis: Pettigrew was beginning to emerge as a top target in the Lions offense. We'll learn more about it and deliver the latest when we get it. Casey FitzSimmons is expected to pick up his reps in the interim.
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| 11/24/2009 |
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Pettigrew not a good bet on Turkey Day
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew did not catch a pass the last time the Lions faced the Packers earlier this season in Week 6. Since that game, Pettigrew has caught 17 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns and went for 72 yards and a score in Week 11 against the Browns.
Analysis: The Packers have one of the NFL's better pass defenses and that doesn't bode well for Pettigrew. He's been great of late for the Lions but really is only a No. 2 Fantasy TE for the Thanksgiving Day game.
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| 11/22/2009 |
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Pettigrew scores decisive TD Week 11
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew scored a touchdown from 1 yard out with no time remaining on the clock on Sunday in a Week 11 win over the Browns. He caught six passes in the game and gained a total of 72 yards. His TD reception came tied the game at 37 and a Jason Hanson extra point delivered the Lions the win.
Analysis: Pettigrew has scored his first two career touchdowns in the past three weeks as he seems to have developed some rapport with fellow rookie Matthew Stafford. However, Stafford injured his shoulder Week 11 and might not be able to play on Thanksgiving against the Packers. He should be considered just a low-end Fantasy option for Week 12 against Green Bay as the Packers have a solid pass defense. Pettigrew was shut out in Week 6 against the Packers.
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| 11/15/2009 |
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Pettigrew has two catches Sunday
News: Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew had two catches for 23 yards Sunday at Minnesota.
Analysis: Pettigrew is a low-end Fantasy option in the majority of leagues, but he should be considered a sleeper in deeper formats for Week 11 against Cleveland.
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| 11/8/2009 |
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Pettigrew scores first career TD
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew caught his first touchdown pass on Sunday in a Week 9 loss to the Seahawks. The TD pass went for 7 yards, giving the Lions a 7-0 lead in the game. He finished the contest as the team's leading receiver, catching seven balls for a total of 70 yards. His longest reception went for 18 yards.
Analysis: Pettigrew had been a disappointment for the most part in his rookie season as this was his biggest game of the year. Matthew Stafford got off to a good start Week 9 then it all fell apart after the first quarter as he threw five interceptions. Pettigrew can't be counted on to catch too many passes on a week to week basis and is just a low-end option for Week 10 at Minnesota.
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| 11/1/2009 |
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Pettigrew makes two grabs Week 8
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew made two grabs in the team's Week 8 loss to the Rams. Pettigrew gained a total of 17 yards in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has not been all that impressive in his rookie campaign with the Lions. He failed to catch a pass in Week 6 and has not caught a TD pass all season. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option for Week 9 at Seattle although he does have some upside.
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| 10/14/2009 |
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Pettigrew expected to play at Green Bay
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew (hamstring) was able to pracitce in full all week as the team prepares for its Week 6 game at Green Bay. Pettigrew is considered probable for that contest.
Analysis: Pettigrew played through this injury in Week 5 and ended up with three catches for 27 yards against Pittsburgh. That type of production makes him just a low-end option for Week 6 even though he is expected to play.
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| 10/11/2009 |
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Pettigrew catches three passes
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught three passes for 27 yards in Week 5 against Pittsburgh. He was thrown to six times in the game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has been dealing with a hamstring injury, but that did not seem to affect him in Week 5. He has been good for around three or four receptions per week and could be useful as a No. 2 tight end in larger leagues. The Lions travel to Green Bay in Week 6.
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| 10/10/2009 |
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Pettigrew likely active Week 5
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew (hamstring) has been listed as probable for the team's Week 5 game against the Steelers. Pettigrew was limited in practice on Friday due to the injury.
Analysis: Pettigrew had not been on the injury report until Friday, a small cause for concern even though he is listed as probable for the game. Assuming he is active, Pettigrew is still at best a low-end Fantasy option.
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| 10/4/2009 |
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Pettigrew has career-high 64 yards
News: Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew had four catches for 64 yards Sunday at Chicago. This was Pettigrew's best game of his young career.
Analysis: Pettigrew came into this game with six catches for 67 yards, so he continues to make strides. Don't plan on starting him in Week 5 against the Steelers, but he could be considered a bye-week replacement in deeper leagues.
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| 9/27/2009 |
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Pettigrew makes 2 grabs Week 3
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew caught two passes for 27 yards in Week 3's win over Washington.
Analysis: Pettigrew is a rookie out of Oklahoma State. He has six receptions thus far this season for 67 yards and is looking like the Lions' best option at TE. Still, he doesn't pick up enough consistent stats just yet to be considered anything but a very low-end Fantasy option for Week 4 at Chicago.
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| 9/20/2009 |
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Pettigrew gets first career catch
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew was in the starting lineup for a second straight game Week 2 against the Vikings, only this time he wasn't held off the stat sheet. The rookie tight end was second on the team with four catches for 40 yards. His longest reception went for 14 yards. He was also targeted five times. The only target he didn't catch went for an interception.
Analysis: The Lions are expecting big things from Pettigrew, who was a pass-catching tight end at Oklahoma State. While he was a disappointment in Week 1 against the Saints with no catches, Pettigrew definitely flashed his potential in Week 2. Pettigrew is at best a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 3 against the Redskins.
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| 9/13/2009 |
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Lions minions don't factor
News: The following Lions backups did not record significant stats in Week 1 at the Saints: QB Daunte Culpepper, RB Brandon Pettigrew, WR Yamon Figurs, RB Terrelle Smith and WR Dennis Northcutt.
Analysis: None of the players listed figure to have any real Fantasy appeal any time soon. Culpepper could have some low-end appeal as a No. 2 QB in larger leagues should something happen to rookie Matthew Stafford, but he should remain on waivers in most Fantasy leagues.
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| 8/29/2009 |
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Pettigrew makes 2 grabs in debut
News: Detroit TE Brandon Pettigrew (quadriceps) was able to return to action for Saturday's preseason win over the Colts. After missing the first two preseason games, Pettigrew debuted with two catches for 24 yards.
Analysis: Pettigrew has plenty of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in deep seasonal drafts as a low-end No. 2 option and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 8/28/2009 |
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Pettigrew expected to make debut
News: After missing the first two preseason games with a quadriceps injury, Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew is expected to play Saturday against the Colts in the third preseason game.
Analysis: Pettigrew has plenty of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in deep seasonal drafts if he's healthy as a low-end No. 2 option and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 8/22/2009 |
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Pettigrew sits out Sat. as expected
News: Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew (quadriceps) sat out Saturday's loss to the Browns as expected.
Analysis: Pettigrew has plenty of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in deep seasonal drafts if he's healthy as a low-end No. 2 option and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts. Hopefully he'll get back to action soon.
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| 8/21/2009 |
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Pettigrew still hurt
News: Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew, who has battled a quadriceps injury throughout training camp, is expected to miss Saturday's preseason game against Cleveland. It will be the second preseason game he has missed.
Analysis: Pettigrew has plenty of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in deep seasonal drafts if he's healthy as a low-end No. 2 option and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 8/15/2009 |
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Pettigrew misses first preseason game
News: Detroit rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew did not play in Saturday's preseason game against the Falcons with a quadriceps injury. He is considered questionable for the team's upcoming preseason game at Cleveland on Aug. 22.
Analysis: Pettigrew has some potential to be a first rate tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. Take him with a late-round pick in seasonal drafts and as a low-end No. 2 option in rookie-only formats.
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| 8/14/2009 |
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Pettigrew could miss game
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew will be a game-time decision for Saturday's preseason game against Atlanta. He is dealing with a quad injury. "We'll take a few guys to warm up and maybe see how they warm up," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said.
Analysis: Pettigrew has plenty of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in seasonal drafts as a low-end No. 2 option and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 8/3/2009 |
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Lions TE Pettigrew tweaks quad
News: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew missed Monday's training camp practice with a tweaked quadriceps muscle that could keep him out a few days. Pettigrew had been having a decent camp until the injury, which isn't expected to keep him out long.
Analysis: Pettigrew is a behemoth with lots of potential as an every-down tight end for the Lions. He's a terrific blocker and a blossoming receiver. He's worth a pick late in seasonal drafts and an early-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 8/1/2009 |
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Pettigrew signs five-year deal
News: The Lions have signed first-round pick tight end Brandon Pettigrew to a five-year contract. The team did not disclose terms of the deal on Friday. The Lions have all of their rookies signed heading into the first practice on Saturday.
Analysis: Pettigrew was selected 20th overall by Detroit with its second selection of the first round. He finished his career at Oklahoma State ranked ninth in receiving with 1,450 yards. Pettigrew is worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts, and is also worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues. He should be a top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 6/25/2009 |
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Schwartz: Pettigrew opening eyes
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz likes what he sees in rookie first-round pick TE Brandon Pettigrew, especially following the team's last offseason minicamp. Pettigrew jumped high for a pass from Matthew Stafford in the final practice, showing off his athleticism, and the relationship between a young quarterback and a young tight end is fairly familiar to the first-year head coach. "You don't have to throw a strike for him to catch it," Schwartz said of Pettigrew. "He's got great wingspan. A tight end - that reliable short receiver ... I was in Tennessee with Steve McNair early in his career and he had a guy like Frank Wycheck that, we'd hand it to Eddie George and we'd have some deep stuff, but if it wasn't there, he could always rely on Frank. We have pieces of offense where tight end is a big part for any quarterback, not just a young quarterback."
Analysis: Pettigrew has received high praise all offseason long after being the consensus top TE in the 2009 draft. He should be a regular part of the Lions' offense this season, but that doesn't mean he'll post big stats on a regular basis. Remember, the Lions like him just as much for his blocking as they do for his receiving. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts, and is also worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and is a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 6/15/2009 |
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Pettigrew connecting with Stafford
News: We all know that the best friend for an inexperienced NFL quarterback is a capable tight end, and it looks like that exact connection is playing out in Detroit. The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions rookie QB Matthew Stafford and fellow rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew are in sync on the field with Stafford looking for his big tight end several times during a series of drives in practice. "I'm glad we're kind of getting a feel for each other and a good connection going into this thing and having a good relationship," said Pettigrew.
Analysis: Pettigrew might be on the field a lot this season, and therefore is a sleeper to post some unexpected stat totals in 2009. The rookie is a solid blocker and is a developing receiver, so he could be a bit of a surprise this year. He's worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts, and is also worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and is a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 5/13/2009 |
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Pettigrew could have increased role
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Lions rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew is going to be used often by offensive coordintor Scott Linehan. When Linehan was the offensive coordinator with the Vikings in 2004, TE Jermaine Wiggins led the team with 71 receptions. His 705 yards ranked third behind Nate Burleson and Randy Moss. "You want that production in the passing game," Linehan said of the tight end position. "It starts with the blocking, though. That's why Pettigrew was such a unique fit and profile for the position because he's a blocker and a receiver, and to be an every-down tight end in this league, you have to have some special physical qualities as well."
Analysis: Linehan did well with Wiggins and also with Randy McMichael in Miami, but McMichael struggled with Linehan in St. Louis. Still, Pettigrew has plenty of upside even though he wasn't an outstanding receiver in college. For now, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts. He is worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and is a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts as well.
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| 5/8/2009 |
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Linehan counting on Pettigrew
News: Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan met with the media Tuesday afternoon and confirmed first-round draft pick TE Brandon Pettigrew will be a major component this year, according to mlive.com. "If you look at the teams that run the ball consistently over the course of 16 games and the playoffs, they've got tight ends that can block, whether they're good receivers or not, that's what you've got to be first," said Linehan. Linehan also said Pettigrew isn't just a blocker. "That's why Pettigrew was such a unique fit and profile for the position, because he's a blocker and a receiver," Linehan said. "To be an every-down tight end in this league you have to have some special physical qualities as well. He will be a big factor in our offense whether we're throwing the ball or running."
Analysis: Pettigrew is no better than a No. 2 Fantasy TE in 2009, worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts. He is worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and is a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts as well.
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| 5/6/2009 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Pettigrew hoping for big year
News: The Detroit News reports Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew wants to be one of the top tight ends in the NFL. He does not necessarily want to be the next Antonio Gates or Tony Gonzalez, but if he sees something in their game, he will be certain to incorporate it. The Lions are banking on Pettigrew to become a great slot receiver and blocker. They used the 20th pick of the first round to get him. Pettigrew, who grew up a Cowboys fans in Texas, said his favorite TE is Dallas Pro Bowler Jason Witten. "He just plays hard," Pettigrew said. "I like people who play hard, whether it is blocking or running. He is not a blazer but he knows how to get open. He has great quickness and that quickness helps. I am not a blazer, either, but I try to use my quickness to my advantage."
Analysis: Pettigrew, who was judged the most complete TE in the draft, said he loves seeing what players do in the open field. He studies how guys get open. He watches how they set up linebackers and cornerbacks and makes mental notes for a time he is in that spot. "I want to bring a light to that spot," Pettigrew said. "I want the position to shine. I don't want to be a one-way guy who just blocks or is just a receiver. I want to be that other big guy where people cannot just focus on Calvin Johnson. I want the defense to be like we got a receiver and a tight end to worry about." Pettigrew wasn't known for being a great receiver, so consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option coming into the year. He's not worth drafting in seasonal leagues but should be considered a late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
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| 4/26/2009 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
Lions tab TE Pettigrew with pick
News: The Lions continued to bulk up their offense when they took Oklahoma State tight end Brandon Pettigrew with their second first-round pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Pettigrew, considered the best overall tight end in the draft, is the rare combination of power blocker and receiver that makes him versatile enough to play on every down. Pettigrew caught 42 catches for the Cowboys last year for 472 yards (11.2 avg), but with no touchdowns (nine in his collegiate career). "Brandon Pettigrew is a really, really big tight end that is an NFL-ready blocker right now. Impressive, impressive as a blocker," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said of his new prospect.
Analysis: Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan doesn't have a strong history of utilizing tight ends in his scheme, but Pettigrew should find plenty of room to roam with Calvin Johnson occupying much of the opposing defense's attention and Bryant Johnson garnering some looks, too. He should be a nice red-zone option for the Lions and really his versatility will make him available on many of the Lions' snaps, so long as he progresses enough through the offseason. Pettigrew is no better than a No. 2 Fantasy TE in 2009, worth a late-round pick in deeper seasonal drafts. He is worth a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper leagues and is a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts as well.
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| 12/31/1969 |
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![Brandon Pettigrew]() |
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