San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner delivered a strong message to Brock Purdy critics on Tuesday. Speaking on Bay Area radio station 95.7 The Game, the veteran All-Pro praised Purdy's potential, insisting the quarterback has only begun to scratch the surface of his capabilities.
"Purdy is the man," Warner said. "I love Purdy with everything in my soul because this guy, I believe, can be the best in the game. He's shown that already in this league in [just] three years of playing after being drafted last in the draft.
"But the things that he was doing in training camp were unreal, so I'm excited for when he does get back."
Purdy's injury update
A toe injury has sidelined Brock Purdy, keeping him out of Sunday's Week 2 win over the New Orleans Saints. He is also expected to miss this weekend's home opener against the Arizona Cardinals at Levi's Stadium—though the 49ers haven't yet ruled him out.
Mac Jones started in Purdy's place, guiding the 49ers to a 26-21 victory, and is likely to start again in Week 3.
"But I can't say enough about Mac and his resilience and just his preparedness to come in and help us win a game last week," Warner said. "And we'll see what happens this week and if Purdy is healthy enough to go."
He added, "Mac did a great job of coming in and just doing what was asked of him last week."
According to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, Purdy might only miss two to three weeks, potentially returning in Week 4 against the Jacksonville Jaguars or Week 5 against the Los Angeles Rams.
49ers aim for 3-0 start
The 49ers have opened their 2025 season with back-to-back victories and look to improve their record to 3-0 with a win against the Arizona Cardinals this weekend. Whether Purdy plays or not, Warner believes San Francisco's offense is in good hands as the team aims to maintain momentum.