Hall of Famer emphasizes the importance of quarterback’s role
On ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show,” legendary quarterback Joe Montana shared his thoughts on San Francisco 49ers’ quarterback Brock Purdy’s understanding of the team’s offense. Montana, who excelled at getting the ball to his playmakers during his career, sees a similar approach in Purdy’s game.
Delivering the ball to playmakers is key
Montana emphasized the importance of a quarterback’s role in getting the ball to receivers who can make plays. He drew parallels between his own experience with players like Jerry Rice, Brent Jones, John Taylor, and Roger Craig and Purdy’s situation with offensive talents like Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk.
“It wasn’t about me,” Montana explained. “It was about getting the ball to the people who knew what to do with it because I’m the mailman – [the football] doesn’t belong to me – I want to get it to somebody who knows how to run, knows how to catch.”
Purdy’s calm presence and understanding of his role
Montana praised Purdy for his calm presence in the pocket and his understanding of his role within the offense. Purdy delivers catchable balls and doesn’t force plays, knowing when to take chances and when to rely on the team’s defense.
“[Purdy] understands [his role], he’s calm in [the pocket]. He has a great presence and he’s not trying to knock you out with the football. He delivers a great, catchable ball,” Montana commented.
49ers’ belief in Purdy
Montana acknowledged that there must have been something the 49ers saw in Purdy when they selected him as Mr. Irrelevant in the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite being the last pick, Montana believes Purdy has the potential to succeed, especially with the talented offensive players surrounding him.
“I don’t think it’ll matter who’s out there,” Montana said. “Right now, [Purdy’s] fortunate because he’s got some pretty good studs out there who can give him the ball and go the distance, and there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s a plus for him.”
Importance of playmakers in the Super Bowl
While game management is crucial, especially in the Super Bowl, Montana acknowledged that the 49ers’ success against the Chiefs would rely on the performance of their talented offensive weapons, including Purdy’s ability to get them the ball.
“If the 49ers are to win, their talented offensive weapons will need to be at their best, including the quarterback who needs to get them the ball,” Montana concluded.
