Debate has surrounded Brock Purdy's value, especially as the San Francisco 49ers quarterback becomes eligible for his first contract extension. After three seasons as one of the NFL's best bargains, Purdy is expected to become one of the league's highest-paid players. Yet, some still have their doubts.
Purdy played at an elite level when surrounded by an abundance of playmakers. In 2023, he set a franchise record with 4,280 passing yards. But when adversity struck during the 2024 season—injuries sidelining several key players—Purdy's numbers took a hit, and the 49ers finished with a 6-11 record, missing the playoffs.
Critics argue that his inability to carry the team through a tough season without several key weapons proves he's not an elite passer and doesn't deserve elite pay. His teammates, however, strongly disagree, with one respected defender speaking out on the issue Thursday morning.
Fred Warner spoke with The Athletic's Dianna Russini in New Orleans ahead of Super Bowl LIX, where the star linebacker broke down the key traits of an elite NFL quarterback. These include the ability to process the game at a high level, create plays with their feet, and make high-level throws downfield.
"Brock Purdy does all these things," Warner declared, "and he was in the MVP conversation a year ago. Let's not forget that. He took us to a Super Bowl, and he gave us the lead before, obviously, Patrick Mahomes and [the Chiefs] took it away from us in that Super Bowl."
The 49ers are confident Purdy is the franchise quarterback they've been searching for, and Warner shares that belief.
"This is the guy. There's no question," Warner added. "Everybody out there, if you have any questions about Brock Purdy, I'm here to tell you, I'm not biased, I know ball—he's the guy."
Warner also discussed Ricky Pearsall's challenging NFL start, the adversity Christian McCaffrey faced, and Robert Saleh's return. Watch the full interview below.
