Brock Purdy’s improbable rise from Mr. Irrelevant to San Francisco 49ers’ franchise quarterback has been nothing short of remarkable.
Now, as he enters the final year of his four-year, $3.7 million rookie contract, the conversation is shifting to his next deal – a contract that could make him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history.
On a recent crossover episode of The Athletic Football Show and Scoop City, Robert Mays and Dianna Russini discussed Purdy’s impending payday and whether the 49ers are prepared to commit to a $55 to $60 million annual salary.
“Yeah, I think that’s going to be the number that they wind up sitting at. I think the agent is going to try to get more but they’ll wind up settling in that area,” Russini said.
However, she also emphasized that Purdy isn’t the type of player driven by being the highest-paid quarterback.
“Let’s make it clear though, I don’t think Brock Purdy’s sitting there going, ‘I’m demanding I want to be the highest-paid quarterback.’ I think for Brock Purdy if it was up to him he’d probably make a little bit more than he is now as long as he can drive his Toyota,” she continued.
“I don’t think this is the type of player that’s in this to be the richest man in football, and I think he just wants to be paid what he’s worth and continue to try to improve it and get them a Super Bowl.”
Purdy, the last pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, took over as the 49ers’ starter midway through his rookie season and never looked back.
He led the team to a Super Bowl appearance in 2023, throwing for 4,280 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, setting a franchise record for single-season passing yards.
Though the 2024 season was a setback – with the 49ers finishing 6-11 – Purdy still posted solid numbers, recording 3,864 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in 15 games.
Despite the challenges, both general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan have expressed unwavering belief in Purdy as their long-term quarterback.
“I plan on being with Brock here the whole time I’m here. Brock’s been a stud,” Shanahan said. “He’s a guy I’ve got a lot of confidence in. We’re capable of winning the Super Bowl with him.”
If the 49ers don’t finalize an extension this offseason, they still have the option of using the franchise tag in 2026 to keep Purdy from hitting free agency.
However, doing so could create salary cap complications, especially with other key players due for new deals.
For now, the 49ers must decide: Will they commit $55-60 million per year to their young quarterback, or will they take a more patient approach?
What are your thoughts on Purdy’s contract situation? … Do you think he’s worth those types of figures???
