San Francisco 49ers Alternate Logo

Brock Purdy

Brock Purdy Player Profile

Summary

Brock Purdy is the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers who was selected in the 7th round, 262nd overall, of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Iowa State University. (49ers.com) Initially labeled “Mr. Irrelevant” as the last pick of the draft, Purdy quickly became a surprise starter due to injuries to the 49ers’ primary quarterbacks. He impressed with his poise, accuracy, and game management, leading the team deep into the playoffs and earning a reputation as a clutch, intelligent signal-caller.

Strengths

  • Poise Under Pressure & Decision-Making: Purdy demonstrates strong situational awareness and rarely forces throws under duress. Analysts frequently note his ability to process defenses quickly. (profootballfocus.com)

  • Accuracy & Timing: He has excellent accuracy on intermediate routes and quick-developing plays, especially in the 49ers’ scheme with pre-snap motion and play-action. (nfl.com)

  • Poise as a Rookie Starter: Despite being a 7th-round pick, Purdy excelled in high-pressure games, showing mental toughness and clutch performance in playoff situations. (espn.com)

  • System Fit & Football IQ: Purdy excels in Kyle Shanahan’s offense, which leverages pre-snap motion, RPOs, and timing routes—areas where he thrives due to intelligence and adaptability. (si.com)

Weaknesses

  • Limited Deep Ball & Arm Strength: Purdy’s arm is considered average at best, which limits his ability to consistently stretch defenses vertically or make off-platform throws to deep targets. (profootballfocus.com)

  • Durability & Thin Margin for Error: While tough, Purdy is 6′1″ and 220 lbs—slightly undersized for NFL quarterback standards—which could make him vulnerable to injury if not protected. (cbssports.com)

  • Experience Limitations: Purdy has limited NFL starting experience; while he succeeded in his rookie season, sustained performance against elite defenses over multiple seasons is untested. (nfl.com)

  • Reliance on Scheme: Purdy’s strengths are amplified in Shanahan’s system. He may struggle outside of a highly structured scheme that leverages pre-snap motion, play-action, and timing-based throws.

Fit & Outlook

Brock Purdy is a rare example of a late-round quarterback outperforming expectations. His poise, accuracy, and mental processing make him an excellent fit for the 49ers’ system, and his rookie success demonstrates significant potential.

Key focus areas for long-term success:

  • Continue improving arm strength and deep-ball accuracy.

  • Develop consistency in high-pressure, high-volume situations over multiple seasons.

  • Maintain health and durability behind the 49ers’ offensive line.

  • Expand adaptability to handle defenses when the game plan requires improvisation.