ESPN conducted a poll that saw Purdy receive positive and negative reviews
So much of the discourse surrounding San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy involves Kyle Shanahan’s scheme, Purdy’s supporting cast, and Purdy’s physical and mental gifts as a quarterback. Detractors say things like: “Anyone can be successful as the 49ers QB,” or “Purdy is a check-down merchant.” Supporters point to Purdy’s understanding of the 49ers offense, the efficiency of the offense, and pocket presence.
What do NFL players think of Purdy? NFL Network’s list of the top 100 NFL players, voted on by players, placed Purdy at number 30. ESPN conducted a poll asking 103 NFL players specific questions about NFL quarterbacks, and the results of the poll are interesting.
For instance, players were asked if Patrick Mahomes can surpass Tom Brady as the “Goat,” the top three quarterbacks currently, the rookie QB most likely to succeed, and who is the most overrated and underrated QB in the NFL, and the biggest trash-talking QB.
The top three quarterbacks in football, according to the poll, are Mahomes (291), Lamar Jackson (124), and Joe Burrow (51). Rounding out the top five are Josh Allen (39) and Aaron Rodgers (32). The results are based on first-place (three points), second-place (two points), and third-place (one point) votes.
The most overrated quarterback voting is interesting, with the top three vote-getters combining for five Pro Bowls, two conference championship game appearances, and one Super Bowl appearance.
Allen was voted the most overrated with 11 votes, narrowly edging out Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa with ten votes. Justin Herbert (nine), Trevor Lawrence (eight), Deshaun Watson (seven), and Kyler Murray and Brock Purdy tied for last on the list with six votes apiece.
Purdy’s inclusion on this list isn’t surprising, but the kicker is that Purdy and Matthew Stafford were voted the most underrated quarterbacks, with 14 votes each. Both doubled Kirk Cousins in votes for third place with seven votes, which tied with Jordan Love, Jared Goff, and Brock Purdy.
Here is what ESPN said about Purdy:
The first NFL label attached to Purdy was “Mr. Irrelevant,” for being the last pick of the 2022 draft. The next label was “game manager,” for not being as flashy as some of his peers.
Now, Purdy can add at least a share of another label: “Most underrated quarterback in the NFL.” He and the Los Angeles Rams’ Matthew Stafford tied for most votes.
Last year, Purdy led the 49ers to a Super Bowl and notched the best QBR in just his second season.
The Purdy discussion won’t die down, with Purdy due for a contract extension next season. It’s interesting to get NFL player’s opinions about the 49ers signal-caller.