Niners quarterback Brock Purdy says there’s a “fine line” between serious preparations and having fun, but he
believes it’s crucial to remember why he’s there.
“Obviously, studying and being prepared for every little situation and circumstance and being ready to answer those
questions, right, but also being able to enjoy the game,” he said.
“We’re in the Super Bowl. When you were younger, you used to fantasize about them. You wanted to play; it’s every
kid’s desire to play in this game. This is something we’ve all wanted to do since we were kids, and we’ve got to be
thankful for it while still having fun.”
Purdy, nicknamed ‘Mr Irrelevant’ after being selected last in the 2022 NFL Draft, has emerged as a high-level
quarterback in his second season in the league.
The 24-year-old cemented his place in 49ers history by leading the team to one of the greatest comebacks in NFC
Championship Game history, overcoming a 17-point halftime deficit against the Detroit Lions.
It was the latest story in a remarkable season in which Purdy has risen to become one of the league’s most
recognizable players.
“Earlier this year, there was not a lot of talk or buzz really about myself,” he told me.
“Not that I listen to it and believe it all, but it’s almost like, ‘Alright, I still have to go out there and play with that chip
on my shoulder and prove to my teammates that I can be the guy for the team.'”
San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan has built a strong system around Purdy this season, with renowned
quarterback Tom Brady telling CNN that the youngster has done “a hell of a job.”
Shanahan’s father, Mike Shanahan, guided the Denver Broncos to two consecutive Super Bowl victories in 14 seasons
as head coach.
Shanahan Sr. spent 20 years coaching in the NFL, including spells with the Los Angeles Raiders and the then-named
Washington Redskins (now the Commanders).
When questioned about his own accomplishments and legacy on the sport and the 49ers franchise before of the
Super Bowl, Shanahan stated it is something he has “never thought about.”