The San Francisco 49ers recently took their quarterback, Brock Purdy, from Mr. Irrelevant to one of the top-paid quarterbacks in the league. The team gave Purdy a five-year, $265 million contract extension.
The new deal generated a lot of buzz around the league, sparking debate over Purdy’s value to the 49ers. Some believe it is a lot for a quarterback doing little more than driving a well-equipped car. Others feel that Purdy does not get the respect he deserves.
George Kittle Sees a New Leader Emerging in Brock Purdy
Recently, 49ers star tight end George Kittle spoke with Laura Britt from NBC Sports. Kittle certainly understands the importance of a new contract; San Francisco just made him the highest-paid tight end in the league after inking him to a new four-year contract extension for $76.4 million. Context is important.
Kittle told Britt (via 49ers Webzone) that he thinks it is vital to have stability at the quarterback position. He said that it not only helps his performance but also helps the whole team. When asked about the next step in Purdy’s development, he indicated he has already seen growth.
“One thing I’ve already seen from Brock this offseason, just being back around for all of [the offseason program] and stuff, is just his voice is heard significantly more in the building, which I love, whether he’s breaking down the team, talking in the locker room. He’s always kind, he’s always nice to everybody, but he’s just more vocal to everybody in team settings, which is huge,” Kittle said about the change he’s already witnessed.
Leader: 49ers Brock Purdy took less money because he doesn’t need every penny for himself and wants his team to win:
“Obviously, I want to get what I deserve, also surround myself with guys around me. Not just try to take every penny for myself.”
He signed a 5-year, $265M deal… pic.twitter.com/RgBLEd2vPp
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman)
“And people, when they hear the quarterback talk, your head kind of snaps. That’s what you listen for because he’s the face, the leader of the team,” added Kittle about Purdy’s impact in the facility this offseason.
Kittle said it is “awesome” to see a young player grow the way Purdy has. When Purdy was drafted last — literally, pick 262 in Round 7 — in 2022, Kittle had already been an established veteran on the team for several years.
Having Purdy on the roster has been good for Kittle’s stats. While he performed well under Jimmy Garoppolo, he has consistently scored more touchdowns with Purdy.
Purdy: From Brady Slayer to Super Bowl Dreams
Ever since Purdy stepped on the field in 2022, he has been surprising people. He was the first “Mr. Irrelevant” to throw a touchdown pass in a regular-season game. Then he became the only quarterback to beat Tom Brady in his first career start.
He caught fans’ attention, and they were excited and cheering for this unlikely hero. In 2023, Purdy helped the San Francisco 49ers get to the Super Bowl, but they lost 25-22 to the Kansas City Chiefs in overtime. Purdy threw for 255 yards and one touchdown.
The 2024 season wasn’t as successful as anyone would have liked. However, the team was plagued by injuries. As they head into 2025, everyone in San Francisco hopes that a full-strength team, led by this newly invigorated Purdy, will help them win another Lombardi.
