Summary

Brock Purdy was selected in Round 7 (#262 Overall) of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Iowa State, becoming the final pick of the draft and earning the nickname “Mr. Irrelevant.” A four-year starter in college, Purdy left Cyclones as the program’s all-time leader in passing yards, touchdown passes, total offense, and wins by a quarterback, while earning Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year (2021) honors. Since entering the NFL, Purdy has far exceeded expectations, emerging as a full-time starter and leading the 49ers to multiple playoff runs, including a Super Bowl appearance following the 2023 season. He has posted elite efficiency metrics, finishing near the top of the NFL in completion percentage, yards per attempt, passer rating, and QBR, while throwing for 4,000+ yards and 30+ touchdowns in a season. Purdy is widely regarded as a high-character, poised leader, praised for his football intelligence, calm demeanor, work ethic, and ability to command the huddle despite limited draft pedigree.

Strengths

• Elite Processing Speed: Diagnoses coverages quickly and consistently gets the ball out on time while thriving in rhythm-based passing concepts. Throws receivers open before breaks.

• Accuracy to All Levels: Delivers catchable passes with strong ball placement, especially in the intermediate middle of the field. Especially excels on in-breaking routes, crossers, and layered concepts.

• Pocket Poise: Calm under pressure; subtle pocket movement allows him to avoid rushers without panicking or bailing early. Functional athlete who can escape, reset, and throw accurately on the move.

• Decision-Making: Protects the football and understands situational football while rarely forcing throws outside structure. Executes play designs precisely and maximizes yards after catch opportunities for skill players.

Weaknesses

• Average Arm Strength: Lacks elite velocity and his deep sideline throws and late-window passes can hang if timing is disrupted.

• Size / Physical Profile: Undersized by traditional NFL standards, which can limit throwing lanes and margin for error.

• Reliance on Timing: When receivers are rerouted or plays are delayed, effectiveness can dip without perfect spacing. Interior collapse can affect mechanics and force quicker decisions than ideal.

• Occasional Risk in Middle Zones: Confidence in anticipation can lead to tight-window throws that invite turnover opportunities.

Outlook

Purdy is an ideal fit for a timing-based, play-action-heavy offensive system that emphasizes spacing, motion, and yards after catch making him a natural match for Kyle Shanahan’s scheme. His ability to process quickly, distribute efficiently, and maintain composure allows the offense to stay on schedule and punish defenses that overcommit to stopping the run. While Purdy may never be mistaken for a prototype, high-arm-talent quarterback, his mental makeup, accuracy, and command of the offense elevate those around him. Looking forward, Purdy projects as a long-term NFL starter with top-10 efficiency upside when supported by a strong scheme and surrounding talent. Continued improvement in handling pressure and creating outside structure will determine whether he remains a very good starter or ascends into consistent upper-tier quarterback territory. Regardless, his trajectory, leadership qualities, and proven production indicate he has already outplayed his draft status and established himself as a legitimate franchise quarterback.