49ers’ Commitment to Brock Purdy: A Decision Reinforced by Recent Playoff Implosions
The San Francisco 49ers are doubling down on their commitment to Brock Purdy as the future of their franchise, even after a lackluster 6-11 season. In the end-of-season press conference, head coach Kyle Shanahan made it clear: “Brock is the leader of our team. I’ve loved these three years with Brock, and I plan on being with Brock here the whole time I’m here.”
Despite Purdy’s struggles to replicate his spectacular 2023 season, primarily due to injuries to key offensive players, the 49ers remain steadfast in their belief in him. Purdy wasn’t the main reason the 49ers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2020, and recent postseason events have only underscored their confidence in paying him true top-of-market money.
Jared Goff’s Playoff Struggles Highlight Purdy’s Value
Last offseason, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff signed a four-year, $212 million extension, averaging $53 million per year with a $73 million signing bonus—the largest ever given to a quarterback at the time. Goff led the Lions to the brink of a Super Bowl appearance, and his performance justified the hefty contract.
However, Goff’s latest playoff performance saw him falter. In the NFC Divisional Round, Goff endured his worst playoff game since Super Bowl 53, throwing three interceptions, including a pick-six, as the Lions succumbed to the Washington Commanders.
The performance illuminated the limitations of Goff under pressure. He was just 8 of 18 for 114 yards when pressured, with two turnovers showcasing his struggles against the rush.
Purdy vs. Goff: A Tangible Difference
Goff and Purdy are similarly viewed as quarterbacks elevated by their supporting casts. However, Purdy’s ability to extend plays and make things happen outside the pocket sets him apart. His performance in the 17-point comeback against Detroit in 2023 is a testament to this skill.
Purdy’s scramble rate of 8.3 percent matches that of Lamar Jackson, compared to Goff’s 2.4 percent. In rushing Expected Points Added (EPA), Purdy ranked eighth among quarterbacks with at least 100 plays, while Goff had a negative EPA of 3.1.
A Future Built on Mobility and Playmaking
Purdy’s innate ability to extend plays and his prowess for making things happen outside the structure of the offense provide the 49ers with an extra dimension. Despite not being brilliant under pressure in 2024, Purdy’s skill set offers him more avenues to mitigate the rush.
With the recent playoff struggles of similar quarterbacks like Goff, the 49ers can feel assured in their decision to commit to Purdy and potentially pay him a contract that surpasses Goff’s. Purdy’s mobility and playmaking abilities make him better suited to the modern NFL, giving the 49ers a crucial additional upside as they move forward.
