Brock Purdy rose from 49ers third-string quarterback to QB1 in three months and is two wins away from Super Bowl LVII.
Everything as a beginner.
But that’s not how Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy sees it as he prepares to continue the legendary rivalry with the 49ers in Sunday’s NFC Divisional Round at Levi’s Stadium.
When asked if the Cowboys could take advantage of Purdy’s inexperience as a freshman, McCarthy denied that notion outright, claiming it would be business as usual.
“You cannot stray too far from what you believe and from your preparation,” McCarthy told reporters Thursday. “You have to trust the video you have of him. We’re not studying college tape or anything, he’s got a lot of film now and he’s acted at a very high level.
“In our eyes, he is no longer a rookie.”
For McCarthy, Purdy didn’t play like a rookie. There have been very – very – few instances where it’s easy to believe he’s started in just six NFL games.
Of course, mistakes happen with a 23-year-old rookie QB at the helm, but there weren’t many.
McCarthy shared what has impressed him most about Purdy’s impressive performance so far.
“The three things I’ve noticed from watching him and also getting a chance to see him live lately are his instincts, his awareness and his confidence,” McCarthy said. “For a young player, he definitely seems very confident and feels comfortable in the system.
“He throws on time. You can see that in his instincts. Awareness of defensive versatility doesn’t seem to impress him. You do not see [him] make panic decisions.”
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In his seven games since joining Jimmy Garoppolo, Purdy has thrown 16 touchdown passes, skated two more, and thrown just three interceptions.
The matchup against Dallas will be Purdy’s biggest test yet and all eyes will be on the young QB.
Regardless of how the season ends, one thing is certain: from the last pick in the 2022 NFL draft to “Mr. Anything but Irrelevant” will make Purdy’s rookie season unforgettable.
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