Brock Purdy Continues to Shine: Randy Cross Discusses 49ers' Path

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Brock Purdy’s Growth Raises Expectations for San Francisco

Brock Purdy continues to improve under Kyle Shanahan. While few could have expected the final player selected in the draft out of Iowa State to perform at this level, Shanahan deserves considerable credit for Purdy’s development. Purdy also deserves recognition for his hard work.

Purdy benefits from strong weapons and a very good offensive line, but he also possesses exceptional timing, accuracy and rhythm. He has continued to refine those qualities, and this may be the best season of his career. His accuracy can be startling, especially when viewing from the end zone and seeing the small passing windows he consistently hits.

Despite a 6-0 start, Shanahan acknowledged that the team will ultimately be judged by its postseason performance. Regular-season victories matter, but expectations in San Francisco are centered on winning another championship. Shanahan’s standing among the greatest coaches will depend on how his teams finish.

The standard within the San Francisco 49ers organization is a championship trophy. Players, coaches and fans understand that seasons are supposed to end with the team finishing the job. That expectation also explains the concern when players suffer injuries during the season.

John Lynch and the personnel department also deserve more attention for the team’s success. Through the draft, free agency and other personnel decisions, they continue to find productive players who make an immediate impression on the field. Their ability to keep identifying talent remains a major part of the organization’s success.