Steve Young Urges Brock Purdy to Step Up for the 49ers

NFL Hall of Famer and former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Steve Young recently spoke about the importance of Brock Purdy stepping up for the team as they continue their pursuit of another Super Bowl title. Young, who led the 49ers to a championship in 1995, has been vocal about the unique pressures and expectations that come with playing quarterback for a franchise with such a storied legacy. He believes Purdy, the team’s starting quarterback, needs to elevate his performance if the 49ers are to reach their full potential this season.

Purdy, who emerged as the 49ers’ starter last season after injuries to Jimmy Garoppolo and Trey Lance, surprised many with his poise and ability to command the offense as a rookie. However, heading into the 2024 season, Young emphasized that the stakes are higher, and Purdy must show even more growth and leadership to guide San Francisco deep into the playoffs.

“Playing quarterback for the 49ers is unlike anywhere else,” Young explained. “You’re not only playing for yourself and your teammates, you’re playing for an organization with championship expectations. Brock did a great job last year, but this year is about taking that next step. He needs to lead this team, especially in critical moments.”

Young pointed out that Purdy’s situation is challenging, given that he wasn’t a highly touted draft pick, but he noted that the quarterback has already shown resilience and an ability to thrive under pressure. Purdy, known as “Mr. Irrelevant” after being the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, defied expectations by leading the 49ers to the NFC Championship Game last season. Despite his success, Young stressed that maintaining consistency and proving himself again this season is vital.

“The NFL is all about proving it every week,” Young said. “Brock has the talent around him. He’s got great coaches, great teammates, and a great defense backing him up. Now, it’s about putting it all together and showing he can be the guy who leads them to a championship.”

As the 49ers enter the 2024 season with Super Bowl aspirations, the spotlight will be on Purdy to build on his impressive rookie campaign. Young’s comments highlight the expectations not just from fans, but from those who’ve worn the 49ers jersey before him, adding pressure for Purdy to perform at an elite level.