There has been widespread discussion surrounding Brock Purdy as the San Francisco 49ers gear up to begin contract extension negotiations with their 24-year-old quarterback. Purdy's 2024 campaign hasn't matched the record-breaking numbers he posted last year when he set a franchise record for single-season passing yards. While he has faced challenges, not all of the blame for this season's struggles should fall squarely on his shoulders.
Heading into Week 16 against the Miami Dolphins, the 49ers hold a 6-8 record and are effectively out of playoff contention. Though not mathematically eliminated, their postseason hopes rely heavily on an unlikely series of outcomes.
Purdy has passed for 3,174 yards this season, with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions. His 65% completion rate and 94.3 passer rating are both career lows. Despite this dip in production, many expect the 49ers to make Purdy one of the NFL's highest-paid players this offseason.
"Brock has been awesome for us since he stepped on the field," general manager John Lynch said Friday on Bay Area radio station KNBR. "This year's been a little bit of a struggle."
Lynch referenced a statistic that highlights the team's offensive challenges. Last season, running back Christian McCaffrey and wide receivers Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk combined for 40 touchdowns. This year, they have combined for only two touchdowns—both by Samuel (one receiving, one rushing).
"And so, things are going to be different when that's the case," Lynch explained. "And a lot of that's injury, and there's other reasons for other parts of that. But we have a lot of confidence in Brock. I think one of the things we love about him is his resiliency and his ability to come back after tough snaps, tough games."
Lynch emphasized that the entire team has been tested this season and must work together to identify and address what went wrong. Additionally, staying healthy next season will be crucial for future success.
"But first and foremost, we've got to focus on Miami, and we've got to finish out this year," Lynch added. "And we'll be fighting and trying to scratch and claw for every win, whether it has playoff implications or not, because that's what we're paid to do, and because of who we are."
Lynch admits that being out of contention is uncharted territory for the 49ers, but he remains optimistic about the team's character and resolve.
"I'm really confident that our group is one that's going to stick together, continue to play hard, and finish this year off in the right way," Lynch concluded. "I'd be shocked if they wouldn't. There's a ton of character, there's a ton of grit, and all those things on this team, and I think it will be demonstrated in Miami, and as we finish this season."
You can listen to Lynch's entire interview below.
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