SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The 49ers found themselves facing an unexpected change in their quarterback situation during the 2022 NFL season. Coach Kyle Shanahan surprised general manager John Lynch with his belief that Brock Purdy, the final pick of that year’s draft, had the potential to become the team’s top quarterback.
Shanahan’s revelation came as the 49ers planned to enter the season with Trey Lance as the starting quarterback and Nate Sudfeld as the backup. However, after seeing enough potential in Purdy, Shanahan began to reconsider the team’s depth chart.
CEO Jed York recounted the shocking moment when Shanahan shared his opinion that the relatively unknown Purdy could rise to the top position in the 49ers’ lineup. Lynch also expressed his surprise at Shanahan’s assessment but acknowledged that the coach often seeks his opinion on unconventional ideas.
The unexpected update from Shanahan to top management coincided with veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s recovery from offseason shoulder surgery. The 49ers were looking to trade Garoppolo before the start of the regular season.
Ultimately, Purdy secured a roster spot, and the 49ers kept Garoppolo on a reduced contract, positioning him at No. 2 quarterback behind Lance. While many believed Purdy might end up on the practice squad, Shanahan’s early observations convinced the team not to let him slip away.
Purdy’s opportunity came after injuries sidelined Lance and Garoppolo, and his performance upon entering the lineup earned him the permanent starting position. Less than two years later, Purdy has solidified his role as the 49ers’ starting quarterback and leads the team into Super Bowl LVIII against the Kansas City Chiefs on Feb. 11 in Las Vegas.
His impressive performance during the season resulted in him being voted as the NFC Pro Bowl starter and being named a finalist for NFL MVP honors, leading the league with a passer rating of 113.0.