The San Francisco 49ers are facing a challenging season following their Super Bowl appearance last year, struggling to recapture the dominance that took them to the top of the NFC. After a disheartening 12–6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night, the team sits at the bottom of the NFC West, leaving fans and analysts questioning the franchise’s trajectory.
One of the most significant storylines coming out of San Francisco this season is the performance and future of quarterback Brock Purdy.
Once hailed as “Mr. Irrelevant” after being the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Purdy rose to prominence with a stellar 2023 season. However, the 2024 campaign has been anything but smooth, prompting speculation about whether Purdy is truly the 49ers’ franchise quarterback.
A Season Full of Setbacks
The loss to the Rams highlighted many of the issues plaguing the 49ers. In rainy conditions at Levi’s Stadium, Purdy delivered one of the worst performances of his career, throwing for just 142 yards, one interception, and registering a passer rating of 45.4—his third-lowest ever.
The offensive struggles have been compounded by a string of injuries, inconsistent play, and off-field turmoil, including linebacker De’Vondre Campbell walking off the field mid-game.
Purdy’s sophomore slump has been stark. After leading the league with a 113.0 passer rating last year, he has managed a more pedestrian 94.3 rating this season, with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions through 13 games.
These struggles have fueled doubts about whether he is worth the significant investment required to secure him as the team’s long-term quarterback.
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The 49ers’ Stance on Purdy’s Future
Despite the turbulence, the 49ers appear unwavering in their commitment to Purdy. According to The Athletic’s Diana Russini, the team remains firm in its belief that Purdy is the answer under center and is planning to negotiate a multiyear contract extension this offseason.
“The team is sticking to its plan,” Russini wrote in her weekly column. “They’re firmly committed to Purdy as their long-term quarterback. I’ve been told the 49ers are still planning to negotiate a multiyear contract extension with Purdy this offseason, backing up the message they’ve consistently sent: ‘Purdy is our quarterback.’”
What Will Purdy’s Extension Look Like?
Purdy is currently in the third year of his rookie deal, making him eligible for an extension after this season. According to Spotrac, his market value is projected at four years and $240.5 million, averaging $60.1 million annually. If signed at this rate, Purdy would become the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL, surpassing Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys, who earns $60 million per year.
The 49ers’ reported willingness to pay top dollar for Purdy indicates a belief that his 2024 struggles are an anomaly rather than the norm. The franchise likely attributes some of the downturn to external factors, including injuries to key players, poor weather conditions, and a shaky offensive line.
Shanahan’s Future Also Secure
Questions surrounding Purdy’s future have coincided with speculation about Kyle Shanahan’s job security. However, Russini also reported that the 49ers have no plans to part ways with Shanahan, despite the team’s unexpected down year.
Shanahan, who has been with the franchise since 2017, has faced criticism for the team’s inconsistency but remains widely regarded as one of the most innovative offensive minds in the NFL. The organization appears willing to give him and Purdy the benefit of the doubt as they look to bounce back next season.
What’s Next for the 49ers?
With four games remaining in the regular season, the 49ers are likely out of playoff contention. However, the franchise’s commitment to Purdy suggests they view this season as a temporary setback rather than a sign of deeper issues. The team will need to address several areas in the offseason, including bolstering the offensive line and addressing defensive depth, to better support their young quarterback.
For Purdy, the remaining games offer an opportunity to silence critics and remind the league why he was considered one of the most promising quarterbacks last season. Whether or not he can do so will have a significant impact on the team’s offseason plans and the terms of his expected extension.
As for Shanahan, he’ll have to prove he can adapt and retool the 49ers to contend in 2025. While the organization’s faith in him remains intact for now, another disappointing season could change the narrative entirely.
Final Thoughts
The 49ers’ reported decision to stick with Brock Purdy signals their belief in his potential as a franchise cornerstone. While this season has been a struggle, the team appears ready to double down on its investment in Purdy, confident that brighter days lie ahead.
Only time will tell if this commitment pays off or if the 49ers’ faith in Purdy and Shanahan proves to be misplaced.
