There was plenty of speculation about what Brock Purdy might demand at the negotiating table with the San Francisco 49ers. Ultimately, the two sides agreed on a five-year contract extension worth an average of $53 million per year, making Purdy one of the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks.
While Purdy likely could have pushed for more, potentially dragging out negotiations through the offseason, he may have left some money on the table to ensure a drama-free process and avoid any distractions.
Many believe the 49ers and Purdy struck a deal that works well for both sides. Still, throughout the process, some wondered whether Purdy might be willing to take less than market value due to his "nice-guy" reputation and team-first mentality.
On Thursday morning, Purdy joined Bay Area radio station KNBR and addressed that perception.
"I think, just where we're at now, going into year four, what I've shown, improved, and done," Purdy said, "I think, just the whole narrative of being the last draft pick, and just being this nice guy kind of thing, it's all good. People can think that and say that, but at the end of the day, I just want to come in here and win games and have this respect, and I have that respect from my teammates in this organization, and that's all that matters.
"But I'm not really sure what people were saying before, like, 'Oh, he's gonna take a pay cut,' or this or that, but for me, it's I have to get what I deserve. And more than anything, it just shows the organization putting their faith and trust in me to be able to lead this organization, and I'm just extremely grateful that they did that."
Where Purdy ranks among NFL quarterbacks became a major talking point ahead of his $265 million deal, and the debate likely won't end now that he's signed long-term. When asked if he sees himself as a top-10 quarterback, Purdy didn't hesitate.
"Yes, sir," he said confidently, with a bit of a laugh.
"I think, for sure, I'm a top-10 quarterback," Purdy added. "I'll leave it at that. I'm not gonna create a list or anything right now."
Purdy also expressed confidence that his best football is still ahead of him and that progress will continue this offseason. He's focused on evaluating past performances and working closely with coaches to elevate his game.
"I'm so excited to be able to go out and just continue to chip away and get better," he said. "They've given me a couple of things I need to work on this offseason. And obviously, we have new faces in the locker room, and there's new guys, and the culture is a little bit different.
"So, the challenge is always different. So, for me, it excites me that I have my best ball ahead of me, and I obviously can help elevate the guys around me as well."
You can listen to Purdy's entire interview below.