NFL fans have all heard the story of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. That "Mr. Irrelevant" story arc should be officially retired after the 25-year-old signal-caller signed a five-year, $254 million contract, including $181 million guaranteed on Friday.
The Niners are coming off a frustrating 2024 season, and this offseason required many difficult decisions. The franchise had to get its roster right to accommodate this mega contract extension for Purdy.
They had been blessed to have Purdy on one of the cheapest deals over the last three seasons, but now San Francisco will have to find a way to win with a quarterback contract that is more in line with the other top quarterback deals across the NFL.
When being recruited by Alabama and head coach Nick Saban, he had very specific criticisms of Purdy.
"You’re below average in height. Your arm strength is whatever. Your accuracy is average."
Saban and the Crimson Tide did not have a quarterback in its 2018 class, although several notable players committed that year, such as Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Jordan Davis.
As part of the 2018 recruiting class, Purdy was rated three stars by 247Sports and 839th in their composite rankings. The Gilbert, Arizona, native had 13 offers and chose Iowa State over Texas A&M, Alabama, UCF and Boise State.
In four seasons with the Cyclones, Purdy compiled a 29-17 record, passed for 12,170 yards, 81 touchdowns and 33 interceptions. When he left Iowa State, Purdy was three-time All-Big 12 and held 32 school records.
The Cyclones' four consecutive winning seasons under Purdy's supervision were the first time the program had such a stretch since 1923 to 1927.
With his new contract in hand and the doubters officially in the rearview mirror, Purdy and San Francisco begin their 2025 season with a road matchup against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, September 7.
