49ers' Brock Purdy has classy response to criticism

Since entering the NFL, Brock Purdy has faced his fair share of critics. The San Francisco 49ers made him the last overall pick in 2022, thrusting him into the starting role during his rookie season only due to two quarterback injuries.

Purdy then led the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game. He followed up with a remarkable sophomore season, setting a single-season franchise record with 4,280 yards and guiding San Francisco to the Super Bowl during his 2023 campaign.

While Purdy's critics have diminished, some skeptics still question whether he deserves to be considered among the league's best passers. During an appearance on the "Pat McAfee Show," the quarterback was asked how he responds to such doubt.

"It's part of the sport," Purdy said. "And I'm not saying, 'Oh, woe is me,' or anything like that. I mean, it's part of it. And people are always going to have a talking point, and that's fine, but for me, all I care about is the respect [from] the guys in the locker room, [from] the coaches, the staff, the organization. And they see how I handle business here, and how I perform in games, and what's on the film, rather than just feelings and opinions and emotions.

"You turn on the film, there's plays being made, there's a guy that's playing quarterback for what it is, and that's how I look at it."

Another successful year will elevate Purdy to one of the highest-paid players in the NFL. The 49ers can initiate contract extension talks with their young starting quarterback after the upcoming season.

Assuming wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk plays for the 49ers this season, Purdy will have the same supporting cast in 2024. Alongside Aiyuk, San Francisco's offense continues to boast talent like running back Christian McCaffrey, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and tight end George Kittle.

Purdy isn't yet fixated on his financial future or the accolades accompanying team success.

"As long as we're winning games, dude, it really don't matter," the quarterback added. "I keep it simple and we just keep moving the ball forward, and that's how I look at it."