Joe Montana Endorses Brock Purdy’s Contract Extension

A 49ers Legend Speaks Out

San Francisco 49ers icon Joe Montana has joined the growing list of former players voicing their support for a contract extension for Brock Purdy. Montana, a four-time Super Bowl champion and the face of the 49ers’ 1980s dynasty, made his stance clear during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.

“You gotta pay him,” Montana stated emphatically. “I can show you four or five guys in the league making tons of money that haven’t produced anywhere near what he’s been able to do.”

Overcoming a Challenging Season

While Purdy and the 49ers faced adversity in 2024, Montana doesn’t believe it was a reflection of the young quarterback’s abilities. Instead, he attributes the team’s struggles to injuries and off-field distractions.

“They just had one of those years where guys get hurt offensively, defensively,” Montana explained. “Craziness in the beginning of the year with the trade talks with [Brandon Aiyuk], and then he gets hurt. They just had one of those years you can’t wait to get behind you.”

Indeed, the 49ers battled significant challenges throughout the season. Key players were either sidelined or forced to play through injuries, the defense struggled to maintain leads, and Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system faltered under the pressure of inconsistent offensive line play.

Support from 49ers Greats

Montana is far from the only 49ers legend calling for Purdy’s contract extension. Jerry Rice, the franchise’s all-time leading receiver, also believes the team must move quickly to secure their quarterback’s future. Like Montana, Rice pointed to the contract dispute with Brandon Aiyuk as a major distraction last season and wants the 49ers to avoid a similar situation with Purdy.

With both Montana and Rice—two of the greatest players in franchise history—backing Purdy’s extension, the message to the 49ers’ front office is clear. Now is the time to secure their quarterback and build toward another Super Bowl run.