Last year, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy earned a spot in Chris Simms' "Scheme Dream" tier of quarterbacks, placing him among the NFL's top 13 signal-callers.

The ranking marked steady progress for Purdy, who came in at No. 17 in 2024 and No. 26 in 2023. However, Simms slightly lowered his evaluation this year, placing the 49ers quarterback at No. 17 in his 2026 quarterback rankings, just ahead of Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts.


Although Simms acknowledged that Purdy's ranking would likely spark debate, he still views the quarterback as an important difference-maker in head coach Kyle Shanahan's offense.

"He's one of those guys, sometimes I always say, he can do more with more, but he's not going to do more with less," Simms said. "I don't think he's going to be the guy that they say, 'Hey, carry the team, do all that,' and everything there."



Simms praised Purdy's field vision, anticipation, and ability to process plays before they fully develop—traits that make him an ideal fit for Shanahan's offense.

He also highlighted Purdy's touch, mobility, and play-extending ability while pointing to what he believes are some physical limitations.


"There are certain plays and throws that they don't call because Brock Purdy's arm is not that," Simms said. "And so, that's where you have to take that into account, too."

Simms also questioned the 49ers' addition of veteran wide receiver Mike Evans, suggesting Purdy may not be the ideal quarterback to take advantage of Evans' downfield skill set.

"That's not Brock Purdy's game," Simms said. "And so, that's where that's going to be a curious match together, those two there."

Purdy is entering his fifth NFL season after an injury-shortened 2025 campaign. A turf toe injury limited him to nine games. However, he still posted solid production, throwing for 2,167 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while recording a 100.5 passer rating and helping the 49ers reach the postseason.

Simms also noted that backup quarterback Mac Jones performed well while filling in for Purdy last season, reinforcing the idea that Shanahan's offensive system helps elevate quarterback play. Still, Simms reiterated that Purdy separates himself through his athleticism and improvisation.


"He's not going to make wow throws on the run, and all that," Simms said. "But again, as far as being surgical, dicing you up, and doing that, and then the occasional, Ok, I had to extend the play, yes.

"But, does he have the type of arm and things that I think, Oh, he can carry the team to where, maybe, they'll be able to beat a Seattle or a Houston or somebody like that, no."

Simms made it clear that he believes Purdy's limitations hold the 49ers' offense back a bit.

Follow us on: X, Facebook, Threads, Instagram

Read Original Article
Visit 49ers Webzone

More San Francisco 49ers News