For most of the 2023 season, Brock Purdy played the quarterback position for the San Francisco 49ers at a very high level. Nonetheless, some might argue that he fell short of his usual standards in losses to the Browns, Vikings, Bengals, and Ravens. However, the 49ers' first three defeats of the 2023 season occurred in games where Purdy didn't have all his weapons available (or perennial All-Pro left tackle, for that matter). With that in mind, the only egregious blemish on Purdy's 2023 regular season came on Christmas Day against the Baltimore Ravens, where he threw four interceptions in a deflating defeat.
Beyond his subpar performance against Baltimore, some critics have pointed out that Purdy's overall play also took a dip during the playoffs against the Packers, Lions, and Chiefs. This assessment is debatable. No, Purdy did not dominate in the playoffs. While Purdy may not have dominated in the playoffs, he made the critical plays needed to win, particularly in the NFC Divisional and Championship rounds. Beyond that, it's almost expected for most quarterbacks to experience a slight dip in performance during the playoffs, as the level of opposing defenses increases and the stakes are at their highest.
It is also important to note that the 2023 season was only Purdy's second NFL campaign, as well as his first full one as a starting quarterback. Further, Purdy was coming off a severe elbow injury and subsequent surgery. In fact, it is now known that Purdy's right arm was not at 100% until perhaps after the midpoint of the 2023 season. Once all those factors are taken into account, Purdy's 2023 season was nothing short of remarkable.
Fast forward to the eve of the 2024 season, and Purdy has been a full participant throughout OTAs and training camp. He is now one of the unquestioned leaders of this team. Additionally, it is widely expected that Purdy will sign a lucrative extension with the 49ers after this upcoming season. According to most insiders, it is virtually a given that Brock Purdy will "break the bank" and join the highest echelon of NFL quarterbacks in terms of annual salary.
However, to secure the bag and become one of, if not the highest-paid player in the league, Purdy must demonstrate that his 2023 season was not an outlier but the norm. If the 49ers are to hand the keys to the franchise over to Purdy permanently, it is essential that he take his game to the next level during the 2024 season.
The real question is: What might the "next level" look like? Opinions may vary. Some might say he needs to simply replicate his 2023 production. Others might argue that he needs to produce at a higher level than last year's stat line. The reality is that beyond the numbers, it will be Purdy's ability to take over games that will put any doubts about his long-term viability as a top-ten NFL quarterback to rest.
Purdy must be dominant whether the team is leading or trailing, regardless of down and distance, or stage of the game. He must also be assertive on every drive and show full command of the offense in every situation, whether it is to protect a lead or staging a comeback during the two-minute offense. Beyond that, Purdy must demonstrate full grasp and control of every possible angle involving situational football.
Finally, it is essential that he always takes care of the football, regardless of the game's circumstances. If Purdy consistently checks all these boxes during the 2024 season, he will be able to name his price, and the 49ers' brass will gladly meet his demands.