Key Takeaways:
– Brock Purdy moved from being the last pick of the NFL 2022 draft to becoming an MVP candidate in 2023.
– Seated with iconic 49er quarterbacks, Purdy shared his journey, labelling his rookie year the ‘longest year of his life’.
– Purdy achieved a franchise record of passing yards and became the first 49ers QB to cross 30 TDs in a year since 2001.
– Despite skepticism, Purdy proved himself as one of the league’s best, leaving a mark on 49ers’ quarterback history.
49ers’ Quarterback Brock Purdy Shares Career Journey
Last week, 49ers’ QB Brock Purdy took the audience through his journey, from being the last pick of the 2022 draft to MVP candidate in 2023, at the Dwight Clark Legacy Series.
The Journey Begins
Purdy’s beginner’s days weren’t easy. Despite earning the “Mr. Irrelevant” honor at the 2022 NFL draft, his drive to fit into the team and make an impression on the coaches pushed him forward. Even fellow 49er Jeff Garcia acknowledged his determination, claiming with Purdy as the team leader, they’d compete in every game.
“It felt like a whole other season, so it was just from one stage to the next,” Purdy shared. “It was probably the longest year of my life.”
Breaking into the 49ers in 2022
Purdy contended against established players like Trey Lance, Jimmy Garoppolo, and proved his skill, coupled with Coach Kyle Shanahan’s support. Shanahan noted Purdy’s knowledge of the position and was eager to witness his execution at a top level.
His breakthrough happened when Lance and Garoppolo got plagued with injuries. From there, Purdy took on the starter’s role by Week 13 and brought the 49ers to a 5-0 record to wrap up the year. He excelled in his role, learning to adapt, be a valuable team player, and eventually a game changer.
Cementing Status as MVP Candidate in 2023
Purdy’s second year marked his establishment in the league, despite skepticism. The QB set the franchise record for passing yards with 4,280 and made history as the first 49er to cross 30 TDs in a year since 2001. He led the NFL in QB rating (113.0), QBR (72.8), yards per reception (13.9), and touchdown percentage (7.0%).
Brock Purdy: Aspiring to Uphold The Standard
While his performance was impressive, Purdy felt the standard set by iconic quarterbacks like Montana and Young. The QB shared that the expectations and standards dawned upon him in his second year, and he aimed to live up to them.
In conclusion, Brock Purdy’s journey from being an underdog to one of the league’s top quarterbacks inspires and exemplifies determination and persistence. For Purdy, a promising future lies on the horizon.