From a technical standpoint, the 49ers could present Brock Purdy with a contract extension today. However, it appears they haven’t extended an offer thus far.
Purdy is an effective quarterback — the 49ers need to determine exactly how talented he is and what his value is to the franchise. The current price for a franchise quarterback in the NFL begins at $60 million each year. Is Purdy really worth that amount?
It’s clear Purdy has achieved considerable success while being surrounded by elite talent. We understand he’s a playmaker capable of scrambling and being inventive. We understand he possesses the mindset of a gunslinger. And we appreciate these qualities in him.
When the 49ers don’t require Purdy to lead the team, he’s fantastic. However, when their defense weakens and they require him to make numerous throws and score many points, he finds it challenging.
Over three seasons in the NFL, Purdy’s statistics when he throws a minimum of 30 passes in a game (including playoffs) are as follows: 27 touchdown throws, 22 interceptions, 89.7 passer rating, 8 victories, 11 defeats.
For Purdy to thrive, he requires an outstanding running back and a top-tier defense, allowing him to be a supportive player and attempt fewer than 30 passes each game. Jordan Love is a comparable quarterback. He’s a playmaker with a bold mindset, but the Packers prefer he doesn’t make too many passes as he might lose the game.
That doesn’t qualify as a franchise quarterback.
If a quarterback must attempt fewer than 30 passes each game to achieve success, he should also pose a significant rushing danger. And Purdy isn’t a significant danger in rushing. He’s a strong scrambler who gets hurt when he runs excessively. There’s a reason Kyle Shanahan rarely calls a zone-read for him.
Will Purdy receive the big money? Most likely, yes. Love certainly did, and the Packers are likely already regretting that agreement. I foresee the 49ers will feel remorse for compensating Purdy as well.