One thing about Brock Purdy, people keep waiting for the magic to wear off. Now four years deep in his pro career, the discussion never seems to go away. But each year finds the San Francisco 49ers right back where they belong, competing for postseason play with Purdy calling the shots.
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That’s because former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Alex Smith, does not subscribe to the pessimism. For him, Purdy has proven himself with his possession of the qualities that define the position. Even more importantly, he feels that Purdy is far from reaching his potential.
Alex Smith Sees A Bright Future Ahead For Brock Purdy
Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (left) with tight end George Kittle (85) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesDuring a recent appearance on “The Krueg Show,” Smith did not hesitate when asked whether he believes Purdy can eventually bring a Lombardi Trophy back to San Francisco. The former No. 1 overall pick pointed to the way Purdy navigated adversity last season and kept the 49ers competitive despite a challenging road through the NFC.
“Yeah, I think he’s got a great chance. This is a guy that I think will always give you a chance to be in contention. Look at last year, if that’s not an example— they had no business doing what they did last year. Given all the adversity and who they were playing against. Look at the division. I still think you can make an argument that Kyle Shanahan is Coach of the Year last year with the job he did. Look at the way Brock played. Again, he’s always going to give you a chance vs anybody. I still think Brock’s best days are ahead and I think he has the skill set to play high level football for a long time.”
Alex Smith was asked if he thinks Brock Purdy will win a Super Bowl:
“Yeah, I think he’s got a great chance. This is a guy that I think will always give you a chance to be in contention. Look at last year, if that’s not an example— they had no business doing what they did last… pic.twitter.com/In3YFREOMb
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That is high praise from someone who understands exactly what it takes to survive as a quarterback in the 49ers. Smith’s comments also arrive at an interesting time. Purdy recently signed a massive extension that firmly established him as the face of the franchise moving forward. With that contract comes a new level of expectation, and not everyone is convinced that he is ready for it.
Former San Francisco safety Donte Whitner recently questioned whether Purdy can consistently carry the offense when everything around him is not perfect. Speaking on The Grit Code podcast, Whitner argued that much of Purdy’s success has come within Kyle Shanahan’s system and suggested the QB still has work to do as a pure drop-back passer.
The criticism is not entirely new. Since entering the league as Mr. Irrelevant in the 2022 NFL Draft, Purdy has battled narratives about his supporting cast, offensive scheme, and whether he can elevate a team on his own.
Smith sees things differently. During his guest appearance on Kay Adams’ show, Up & Adams, the ex-49ers quarterback also emphasized Purdy’s capability of playing behind the line of scrimmage, his hidden athletic skills, and his poise when making mistakes. However, the 49ers quarterback struggles not to let his past mistakes affect future plays, Smith added.
Purdy’s composed demeanor had helped him take the 49ers far in the playoffs, winning the NFC Championship and appearing in a Super Bowl game.
The championship still has not arrived. However, if Smith is right, San Francisco may not be waiting much longer. For now, the former 49ers QB remains convinced that Purdy gives the franchise something every contender needs, a quarterback who always keeps the door open.
The post Former 49ers QB Drops Strong Take on Brock Purdy’s Championship Future appeared first on Gridiron Heroics.