The San Francisco 49ers have been cooking in a way that Russell Wilson hasn’t experienced in years. Since the start of the 3-4 season, the Niners have had nine straight wins and have claimed another NFC West title. Most of that winning streak went to Brock Purdy leading under center. Not only are the 49ers getting the job done with a rookie quarterback, but they’re doing it with a guy who was never supposed to be relevant in the NFL.
Brock Purdy is making history
Purdy joined an exclusive team in the Niners’ win over the Raiders in Week 17 as he became the only fifth QB in league history to win the first four games as a rookie. He is currently in a club with the likes of Ben Roethlisberger (2004), Mike Kruczek (Steelers 1968), Virgil Carter (Bears 1968) and Phil Simms (Giants 1979).
No other QB 49ers have ever won their first three games, and Purdy is in fourth place and is continuing to rise. We’re talking about a franchise featuring Joe Montana, Steve Young, and YA title. For Purdy to do what he has done since Mr. Not being relevant in the draft is remarkable. He is no longer relevant and can already be argued as the best Brock in the NFL. Brock Osweiler is a bust and Brock Lesnar didn’t make it through pre-season against Minnesota in 2004. Former Pro Bowl defensive linebacker, Brock Marion may be the only Brock to challenge Purdy for the crown.
What Purdy is doing should not be taken lightly, as he is more than just another game manager. He also plays when needed and has been trusted by head coach Kyle Shanahan on the pitch. So far, Purdy has been allowed to make as many passing opportunities, if not more than Jimmy Garoppolo.
We’ve seen a lot of guys come and play well for a period of relief or even have a few guys start and play well, then fall again. Or the long-term starter returns and the unknown player falls back into oblivion. Purdy could be another case based on the Niners QB situation that has been around all year.
What about Trey Lance?
Trey Lance was supposed to be the future in San Francisco, but with a bad academic record and end to the season injury, that could be in jeopardy if Purdy continues to play at this level. The team did well under Jimmy Woodbut he also suffered a season-end injury and is likely to leave SF this season.
This could be Purdy’s team moving forward, depending on how Lance looks at next summer’s training camp. And Lance recently had a Monday Ankle surgery left him sidelined at the start of the season. Four of the Niners’ nine straight wins came with Purdy’s lead. If he can help guide this team to another deep playoff, along with Lance and Garoppolo’s standing, Purdy could return as QB1 in his second NFL campaign.
