Last season, Brock Purdy made a significant impact in the NFL after unexpectedly taking over as the starting quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. As the last pick in the NFL Draft, he defied expectations and proved his capabilities on the field. Purdy’s impressive statistics and command of Kyle Shanahan’s offense led to him being named the starter for the 2023 season. However, with a limited sample size and challenges ahead, questions arise about his ability to maintain his success.
Purdy’s Stellar Performance in 2022:
Once given the opportunity to showcase his skills, Purdy did not disappoint. Despite stepping in for the injured Jimmy Garoppolo, Purdy’s numbers were remarkably similar to his predecessor’s, with both quarterbacks averaging around seven yards per attempt and completing approximately 67 percent of their passes. What set Purdy apart was his ability to compete with the league’s best quarterbacks, as he posted impressive statistics throughout the season.
Notable Achievements:
Purdy’s success as a rookie quarterback was evident in his statistics. He achieved the sixth-best DVOA for any rookie quarterback in history and ranked highly in terms of adjusted EPA per play and success rate. Moreover, Purdy led the league in touchdown passes during a late-season stretch. These accomplishments gave the 49ers the confidence to name him the starter for the upcoming season, despite investing in another promising quarterback, Trey Lance.
Considering the Limitations:
While Purdy’s performance was undoubtedly outstanding, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of his rookie season. He played a relatively small number of snaps, and his opponents did not include any top-tier passing defenses. Additionally, his road games showcased a slight decline in performance, with lower yards per attempt and completion percentages. As the 49ers face tougher defenses on the road this year, these factors highlight the challenges Purdy may encounter.
Supporting Cast and Offensive System:
One advantage Purdy holds is the talented supporting cast at his disposal. With players like Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle, Deebo Samuel, and Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers offer a wealth of offensive options. Even if initial choices are covered, Purdy has the ability to make the defense wrong by utilizing his talented teammates effectively. This supporting cast, combined with his proficiency in running Shanahan’s offense, suggests that any potential drop-off in Purdy’s performance could be mitigated by the strength of the team around him.
A Comparison to Dak Prescott:
To assess the potential for a sophomore slump, we can look at the experience of Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. After an exceptional rookie year, Prescott experienced a decline in his second season, with a lower completion percentage, fewer passing yards, and increased interceptions. However, it is important to note that Prescott was still able to lead his football team to victories. This example showcases that while regression may be likely, it does not necessarily equate to a significant decline in performance or team success.
Purdy’s Rookie Composure and Adaptable Skills:
One notable aspect of Purdy’s rookie season was his composure and adaptability on the field. Despite being a wide-eyed rookie, Purdy demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, as indicated by the trust Shanahan placed in him from the start. His ability to make quick decisions and throw with conviction, along with his average time to throw, suggests that he possesses the necessary skills to handle pressure and make optimal choices.
Handling Pressure and Scrambling Ability:
Purdy’s capacity to perform under pressure will be a key factor in his second year. While his rookie season showcased promising results, he ranked among the top 10 for sacks and had a lower average depth of target under pressure. However, Purdy’s athleticism and creativity allowed him to escape pressure effectively and convert critical first downs during high-pressure situations. While excessive reliance on scrambling is not ideal, Purdy has shown the ability to navigate pressure and make plays when needed.
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