Two standout quarterbacks will take the field tonight at Levi's Stadium as the San Francisco 49ers host the New York Jets. One is 40-year-old Aaron Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer with little left to prove in the NFL. The other is 24-year-old Brock Purdy, entering his third year and still facing some skepticism from the media despite his early success.
Both players have impressive skill sets and are eager to start the season 1-0 while aiming to lead their teams to a Super Bowl.
Purdy recently spoke with 49ers team reporter Lindsey Pallares about the upcoming matchup against Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP. The young quarterback, however, downplayed the personal significance of facing Rodgers, focusing instead on the challenge at hand.
"I grew up watching him and stuff, and playing with him on Madden and all those kinds of things," Purdy said. "And so, it's pretty cool. But also, at the same time, similar to the Tom Brady situation my rookie year, I'm going in and I'm playing a good defense. I'm playing the Jets defense. And yes, Aaron's on the other side, but my focus is on the defense.
"But it is still pretty cool to take a step back and look, when I'm on the bench, watching the other team on offense, and seeing Aaron Rodgers on the field and stuff. It's pretty cool."
The two quarterbacks have never met, but Purdy looks forward to talking with Rodgers after the game. Purdy holds a lot of respect for the player he admired growing up. He recalls when Rodgers took over for Brett Favre in Green Bay and watching him enjoy early success.
"And then, obviously, followed him throughout his career, and just how savvy he is as a quarterback, and his arm angles, and the way he rips it," Purdy commented. "He's a baller. He's the best to throw the ball, in my opinion. As a thrower, it's Aaron Rodgers."