Rex Ryan Calls Brock Purdy the NFL’s Most Underrated Quarterback

Brock Purdy has made a strong case as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL, silencing critics who suggested that Mac Jones would have been a better fit for the San Francisco 49ers. Since returning from a toe injury, Purdy has won all six of his starts, showcasing impressive performance that has elevated him to elite status in the league.

This past weekend, Purdy delivered another standout performance on Sunday Night Football, leading the 49ers to a thrilling 42-38 comeback victory against the Chicago Bears. He threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns while also scoring two rushing touchdowns. Remarkably, this marked his third consecutive game with at least 295 passing yards, three or more touchdowns, and a completion percentage above 72 percent.

Former NFL head coach Rex Ryan praised Purdy on ESPN, describing him as the “most underrated quarterback” in the league. He emphasized that Purdy’s achievements often go unrecognized, stating, “He’s the most underrated quarterback in the league. And it ain’t close. I think when people look at him, they never give him props! Here’s another five-TD day for him, but people focus on, ‘Oh, he threw an interception.’ Yeah, okay, that happens.” Ryan added that Purdy excels in accuracy, timing, and anticipation, stating, “No quarterback in the league throws with more accuracy, with timing and anticipation better than this guy. He throws people open.”

Purdy, standing at 6’1″, is considered slightly undersized for an NFL quarterback. Ryan noted that while Purdy may lack the traditional attributes such as a strong arm and elite athleticism, he plays the position exceptionally well. The former coach drew a comparison to Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees, highlighting Purdy’s skill set. “This young man right here doesn’t have the great NFL skill set of the rocket arm, the size, the athleticism. No. But he plays the position about as well as anybody. And that’s why he reminds me of Drew Brees, an undersized guy,” Ryan said.

Ryan also criticized those who favored Mac Jones over Purdy, particularly pointing out a specific touchdown play that showcased Purdy’s improvisational skills. Purdy held the ball for 8.24 seconds before finding Kyle Juszczyk for a touchdown, marking one of the longest snap-to-pass times for a touchdown in his career, according to Next Gen Stats.

Despite only starting eight games this season, Purdy has posted a record of 7-1, including two fourth-quarter comebacks. He leads the league in touchdown rate at 7.8 and success rate at 57.0. Additionally, he ranks among the top five in completion percentage (69.3, tied for 3rd) and passer rating (104.2, 4th). Purdy is also seventh in yards per attempt (7.9) and sixth in passing yards per game (255.0).

If Purdy had remained healthy throughout the season, he would likely be in contention for MVP votes, further solidifying his status as one of the premier quarterbacks in the league. His impressive performance has not only earned him accolades but has also sparked discussions about his future and potential legacy within the NFL.