The Purdy File
- Two First-team All-Big 12 selections, 2020, 2021
- One Second-team All-Big 12 selection, 2019
- Final pick (262) of the 2022 NFL draft
Mr. Not-So Irrelevant
The rollercoaster that is Brock Purdy's quarterbacking career might give you motion sickness.
Purdy's collegiate career at Iowa State was a remarkable one. He led the Cyclones to the four winning records from 2018-2021. Iowa State remained ranked a consistent threat to the Big 12. At his peak, he won the MVP of the Fiesta Bowl, where he defeated the Oregon Ducks.
While at this point his NFL draft stock was more mortal, he was no stranger to hype. His play had landed him in the first round of plenty of mock drafts once he was eligible. A closer look, however, would point to arm talent concerns and a game that may not acclimate well to the modern game.
As a result, Purdy fell. And fell. And fell. All the way to the final pick of the 2022 NFL draft, earning him the title of "Mr. Irrelevant."
The title wouldn't last.
In Week 13 of his rookie year, Jimmy Garoppolo exited the San Francisco 49ers contest with the red-hot Miami Dolphins. With Trey Lance already gone for the season, it was on Purdy to step up, and he did. The 49ers won 33-17, and passed more than most anticipated once the rookie entered the game.
His teammates and coaches acknowledged his "cajones" and his ability to command an NFL offense, assertive amongst a crowd of elite NFL veterans. Purdy was thrown into the midst of a playoff race, conjuring questions of just how far he could take them.
General manager John Lynch put it best.
"He's relevant to us."