Brock Purdy has become the face of hope for San Francisco 49ers fans, doing his best to help carry the load since going from “Mr. Irrelevant” to starting quarterback. Some have floated trade scenarios, especially with his contract extension looming, but moving on from Purdy so quickly might not be the wisest course of action. It doesn’t matter the route taken; franchise QBs don’t grow on trees.
Brock Purdy’s on-field production and growth
When Purdy took the reins for San Francisco, it was supposed to be temporary due to the injury status of the 49ers’ QBs. Fast forward to 2023, Purdy sets a new 49ers’ single-season passing record with 4,280 yards, along with 31 touchdowns and a 69.4 completion percentage. Purdy helped lead the Niners to Super Bowl LVIII, showing that he had arrived as a difference-maker. Even during a rough 2024 campaign filled with injuries up and down the roster, Purdy still passed for 3,864 yards, 20 TDs and 12 INTs.
Thus far, through 36 career starts (roughly two and a half seasons), Purdy has accumulated 9,518 passing yards and 64 touchdowns, all while showing rare consistency for a QB selected last in his draft class. These stats set him apart in a league where finding a stable, high-performing QB production is a constant struggle. Purdy also set a franchise record in 2023 with a 113 passer rating.
Purdy’s efficiency, quick decision-making, and ability to avoid major mistakes put him in rare company. Even in a down year, Purdy ranked top 10 in QBR and outperformed his contract, according to Pro Football Focus.
Beyond the box score, Purdy’s poise in the postseason two years ago lifted the entire locker room. His ability to stay calm under pressure and willingness to fight through adversity (including injuries and roster turnover) have earned the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates. The 49ers know what they have in Purdy, a young leader who doesn’t flinch in crunch time.
Having stability at QB lends distinct advantage
Stability at the QB position is the driving force of success in the NFL. Swapping Purdy for a defensive star like T.J. Watt or swinging at another unproven rookie QB would shake San Francisco’s foundation. The 49ers have watched other teams cycle through failed QB experiments. Trading Purdy resets the clock and risks wasting the prime years of a talented roster. Locker room morale and fan trust would take a hit, too.
Purdy’s rookie deal, with a $5.2M base in 2025, is one of the league’s best bargains. While a new contract could push him toward the $50M-55M per year range, the 49ers have dealt with these situations before and have a game plan. The front office often waits until closer to training camp or later to finalize extensions (as seen with George Kittle and Nick Bosa, among others). It can be nerve-racking for fans, but San Francisco’s patience allows them to build around Purdy while keeping the roster as strong as possible.
Former NFL defensive lineman Chris Canty of ESPN suggested packaging Purdy in a deal for Pittsburgh Steelers pass-rusher T.J. Watt. This proposal sounds good, but this trade plugs one hole by creating another. Watt is elite but doesn’t solve the need for a steady hand at QB. Purdy’s age and production outweigh almost any defensive upgrade. The Niners’ best shot at winning another Super Bowl will come with a stable QB, not a rotating cast.