There’s no question that former NFL head coach Jon Gruden is a big fan of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. As Purdy becomes eligible for his first contract extension—one that many expect will make him among the highest-paid players in football—his value has become a hot topic of debate.

Following the 49ers’ disappointing 6-11 season, Purdy’s critics have been vocal, pointing to his inability to carry the team while missing several key offensive playmakers as proof that he doesn’t deserve a top-tier salary.

Don’t tell that to Gruden.

“They should build a statue of him in San Francisco,” Gruden said this week in New Orleans, ahead of Super Bowl LIX.

Gruden believes Purdy saved the 49ers from one of the biggest mistakes of the Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch era—trading significant draft capital to move up in the 2021 NFL Draft for quarterback Trey Lance, who is no longer on the roster.

“He covered their ass, man,” Gruden said. “They gave up three first-round draft choices to get a guy (Lance) they got rid of. … And this guy’s (Purdy) the last pick of the draft. He’s taken you to the Super Bowl. He’s taken you to the brink.”

As for Purdy’s looming payday, Gruden has no doubt the young quarterback is worth every penny of what’s coming his way.

“He deserves to get paid, and I’ll just leave it at that,” Gruden concluded with a smile.

This article first appeared on 49ers Webzone and was syndicated with permission.