The Athletic's Dianna Russini previously reported that the San Francisco 49ers intended to begin contract negotiations with quarterback Brock Purdy "very soon." According to Russini's latest update, those talks have officially begun, with the 49ers aiming to finalize a deal quickly—avoiding the kind of offseason contract drama they've experienced with other players in recent years.
"Let's clear this up right now: They will get it done," Russini stated in a feature for The Athletic. "And the 49ers aren't dragging their feet — the team wants a deal soon and have started conversations with Purdy's camp."
Russini previously predicted that Purdy's extension would likely land in the $55-60 million range annually.
Purdy is coming off a stellar 2023 season, during which he threw for a franchise-record 4,280 passing yards along with 31 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. However, his 2024 numbers were more modest—3,864 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions—reflecting the 49ers' overall struggles during a 6-11 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Despite the team's rough season, Russini emphasized that the 49ers remain confident in Purdy as their franchise quarterback.
"The Niners have never wavered on Purdy as their franchise quarterback, not after his breakout run, not after leading them to a Super Bowl, and definitely not now after a disappointing 2024 season," Russini added.
RELATED 49ers grant Deebo Samuel permission to seek a trade
Russini's latest report comes as the 49ers have permitted wide receiver Deebo Samuel to seek a trade. Samuel made the trade request during the team's exit meetings following the season.
"It was a hard conversation to have with [head coach] Kyle [Shanahan] because of the relationship that we have," Samuel told ESPN on Sunday. "But I have to do what's best. I'm more than thankful for the Niners giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, but now I think it's best that we find another team."
The receiver is set to count $15.87 million against the salary cap in 2025, the final year of his current deal. However, trading him could present a financial challenge. The 49ers would absorb a $31.55 million dead cap hit if they trade Samuel before June 1. That number drops significantly to $10.75 million if they part ways after June 1.
The downside to waiting is that it would prevent the 49ers from acquiring draft picks in this year's draft as part of the trade since there is no post-June 1 trade designation like there is for player releases.
